micelle

noun

mi·​celle mī-ˈsel 

: a unit of structure built up from polymeric molecules or ions: such as

a

: an ordered region in a fiber (as of cellulose or rayon)

b

: a molecular aggregate that constitutes a colloidal particle

micellar

mī-ˈse-lər 

adjective

Examples of micelle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

It's made up of micelles—tiny oil molecules suspended in soft water—that help remove dirt and oils from the skin. — Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2024

Not your average water, this uses micelles to remove makeup and expertly cleanse the skin. — Kiana Murden, Vogue, 4 Mar. 2025

The micelles — tiny molecules that act as surfactants — dissolve and lift the product away effortlessly. — Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29, 5 Feb. 2026

After consumption, vitamin K must be packaged with other fats in structures called micelles or lipoproteins that can move around in the bloodstream. — Julie Pollock, The Conversation, 17 Nov. 2023

Word History

Etymology

New Latin micella, from Latin mica

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for micelle

• barbell
• bedwell
• befell
• bluebell
• bombshell
• bridewell
• capelle
• cartel
• carvel
• clamshell
• cogswell
• compel

Medical Definition

micelle

noun

mi·​celle mī-ˈsel 

: a unit of structure built up from polymeric molecules or ions: as

a

: an ordered region in a fiber (as of cellulose or rayon)

b

: a molecular aggregate that constitutes a colloidal particle