micelle

noun

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mi·celle | \ mī-ˈsel

Definition of micelle

: 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

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Examples of micelle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web These molecules, when suspended in water, alternately float about as solitary units, interact with other molecules in the solution and assemble themselves into little bubbles called micelles, with heads pointing outward and tails tucked inside. — Ferris Jabr, New York Times, "Why Soap Works," 13 Mar. 2020 Some bacteria and viruses have lipid membranes that resemble double-layered micelles with two bands of hydrophobic tails sandwiched between two rings of hydrophilic heads. — Ferris Jabr, New York Times, "Why Soap Works," 13 Mar. 2020 These two textures work together cohesively, creating a silky lather of micelles and oil, which melt away the most stubborn makeup, without feeling too harsh on the skin. — Maya Allen, Marie Claire, "Glossier's New $12 Milky Oil Will Change the Way You Take off Your Makeup," 19 Feb. 2019 And on no-shower days, there are micelles in R + Co Spiritualized Dry Shampoo Mist. — Elizabeth Siegel, Allure, "7 New Ways to Boost Your Hair-Care Routine This Year," 16 May 2018 Simple Skincare’s version skips strong surfactants for a combo of hydrating plant extracts and micelles (cleansing bubbles that attract dirt and oil without stripping skin). — Lauren Balsamo, Cosmopolitan, "Your Guide to Perfect Skin, Straight From the Experts," 22 Aug. 2017 In micelles, all the tails come together in the middle while the heads form a sphere on the outside, like a bouquet of lollipops with their sticks all tied together on the inside. — Jenna Gallegos, chicagotribune.com, "The best way to drink whiskey, according to science," 17 Aug. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'micelle.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.