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
ˈmem-ˌbrānd How to pronounce membrane (audio)
adjective

Examples of membrane in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That concept forms the basis of membrane-free electrolysis, which avoids the membrane traditionally used to separate the two electrode reactions. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 9 Oct. 2026 The metal floor donates electrons while the membrane pulls oxygen and moisture from the surrounding air to complete the circuit. — New Atlas, 8 Oct. 2026 Hegemann’s research centered on halorhodopsin, a protein that uses light energy to pump chloride ions across the membrane in certain bacteria. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 5 Oct. 2026 The study also pointed to the existence of biological and membrane treatments, but both are generally less effective and restricted by conditions during their use. — Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 2 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for membrane

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

Phrases Containing membrane

Rhymes for membrane

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Browse Nearby Words

membranate
membrane
membrane curing
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Cite this Entry

“Membrane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/membrane. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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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
ˈmem-ˌbrānd How to pronounce membrane (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on membrane

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about membrane

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