micell

/maɪˈsɛl/; /maɪˈsɛl/; /maɪˈsɪl/; /maɪˈsɪl/; /maɪˈsɛl/

Definitions

1. noun

A small particle or aggregate of particles, especially a molecule or a colloidal particle, surrounded by a film or layer of another substance.

“The detergent formed micelles in the water, effectively cleaning the dish.”

2. noun

A small region of the cell membrane surrounding a particular molecule or ion, especially a receptor or an ion channel.

“The micelle in the cell membrane allowed the signal to be transmitted.”

Synonyms

  • aggregate
  • cluster

Antonyms

  • dissolved
  • solvent