plasma membrane

noun

: a semipermeable limiting layer of cell protoplasm consisting of a fluid phospholipid bilayer with intercalated proteins

called also cell membrane

see cell illustration

Examples of plasma membrane in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Upon activation by the caspase-1 protein, gasdermin-D protein assemble to form pores in the plasma membrane of a cell. William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 1 July 2022 Other, typically smaller ones were assembled within the cell before being released through the plasma membrane and became known as exosomes. Quanta Magazine, 2 May 2018

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

First Known Use

1893, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of plasma membrane was in 1893

Dictionary Entries Near plasma membrane

Cite this Entry

“Plasma membrane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plasma%20membrane. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

plasma membrane

noun

Medical Definition

plasma membrane

noun
: a semipermeable limiting layer of cell protoplasm consisting of a fluid phospholipid bilayer with intercalated proteins

called also cell membrane, plasmalemma

More from Merriam-Webster on plasma membrane

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