coacervate

noun

co·​ac·​er·​vate kō-ˈa-sər-ˌvāt How to pronounce coacervate (audio)
: an aggregate of colloidal droplets held together by electrostatic attractive forces
coacervate adjective
coacervation noun

Examples of coacervate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The discovery of a membrane-free cell, called a coacervate droplet, has sparked new ideas on the origins of life. Monique Brouillette, Popular Mechanics, 19 Apr. 2022 In recent years, the discovery of a new type of membrane-free cell, called a coacervate, has led to some ideas. Monique Brouillette, Popular Mechanics, 19 Apr. 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'coacervate.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Latin coacervatus, past participle of coacervare to heap up, from co- + acervus heap

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of coacervate was in 1929

Dictionary Entries Near coacervate

Cite this Entry

“Coacervate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coacervate. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

coacervate

noun
co·​ac·​er·​vate kō-ˈas-ər-ˌvāt How to pronounce coacervate (audio)
: an aggregate of colloidal droplets held together by electrostatic attractive forces
coacervation noun
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