membrane

noun

mem·​brane ˈmem-ˌbrān How to pronounce membrane (audio)
1
: a thin soft pliable sheet or layer especially of animal or plant origin
2
: a piece of parchment forming part of a roll
membraned adjective

Examples of membrane in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web These membranes are a breakthrough, company leaders say, because the membranes resist fouling from organic compounds like fats, oils, grease and proteins. Jeff Kart, Forbes, 30 Nov. 2023 Male bats used their abnormally large penises like an extra arm to move the females’ tail membranes out of the way. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 22 Nov. 2023 Layers of merino wool, a waterproof membrane, and an open bonding make these hard-hitting gloves a sturdy choice for winter running. Laura Holt, Travel + Leisure, 16 Nov. 2023 The first cell formed when some genetic material got stuck inside a membrane and was therefore distinct from its surroundings and able to act upon them. Diana Gitig, Ars Technica, 12 Nov. 2023 Reverse osmosis systems, which use a membrane to separate any impurities, are great for removing heavy metals (including lead) from water because there are multiple stages of cleaning used. Andrea Wurzburger, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Nov. 2023 Look for boots with a waterproof membrane that allows sweat to escape while simultaneously keeping water out. Jessica MacDonald, Travel + Leisure, 21 Nov. 2023 The behavior likely occurs among other bats whose females have a similar tail membrane, Orr says. Lori Youmshajekian, Scientific American, 21 Nov. 2023 Reheating is just as delicate: If the coral is warmed too slowly, melting ice can refreeze and tear through the cells’ outer membranes. WIRED, 11 Nov. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'membrane.' 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

Middle English, from Latin membrana skin, parchment, from membrum

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of membrane was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near membrane

Cite this Entry

“Membrane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/membrane. Accessed 9 Dec. 2023.

Kids Definition

membrane

noun
mem·​brane ˈmem-ˌbrān How to pronounce membrane (audio)
: a thin soft flexible sheet or layer especially of a plant or animal part (as a cell, tissue, or organ)
membranous
ˈmem-brə-nəs
adjective

Medical Definition

membrane

noun
mem·​brane ˈmem-ˌbrān How to pronounce membrane (audio)
1
: a thin soft pliable sheet or layer especially of animal or plant origin
2
: a limiting protoplasmic surface or interface see nuclear membrane, plasma membrane
membraned adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on membrane

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