membrane

noun

mem·​brane ˈmem-ˌbrān 

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

ˈmem-ˌbrānd 

adjective

Examples of membrane in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The folding shell is made of a weather-resistant fabric membrane, while replaceable cladding and repairable parts are designed to enhance its durability. — New Atlas, 27 Sep. 2026

The researchers say future work will need to improve the electrolyte, flow-cell design, and stability of the palladium membrane. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 26 Sep. 2026

StormST uses an ePTFE-free membrane that eVent describes as biobased and PFAS-free. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 25 Sep. 2026

One big debate about ribs is whether to remove the thin membrane on the back of the bones, which can have a chewy texture and prevent the sauce from penetrating the meat. — ABC News, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing membrane

• basement membrane
• basilar membrane
• cell membrane
• embryonic membrane
• fertilization membrane
• inter-membrane
• mucous membrane
• nictitating membrane
• nuclear membrane
• periodontal membrane
• plasma membrane
• serous membrane
• tympanic membrane
• unit membrane
• vitelline membrane

Rhymes for membrane

• abstain
• airplane
• alkane
• arcane
• arraign
• attain
• backplane
• betaine
• biplane
• blockchain
• butane
• campaign

Kids Definition

membrane

noun

mem·​brane ˈmem-ˌbrān 

: 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 

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

ˈmem-ˌbrānd 

adjective