intermolecular or intramolecular interaction between molecules or groups having a permanent electric dipole moment. The strength of the interaction depends on the distance and relative orientation of the dipoles. The term applies also to intramolecular interactions between bonds having permanent dipole moments.
See also: van der Waals forces
Source:
PAC, 1994, 66, 1077. 'Glossary of terms used in physical organic chemistry (IUPAC Recommendations 1994)' on page 1106 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199466051077)