noun
membrane
MEHM-brayn
noun
1
A thin, flexible layer of tissue that lines or separates parts of an organism.
"The cell membrane controls what enters and leaves the cell."
2
A thin flexible sheet used as a barrier or covering, such as a waterproofing layer in construction.
"A waterproof membrane was fitted under the roof tiles."
How to Use Membrane
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA thin, flexible layer that covers or separates something — used both biologically (cell membranes) and in building materials.
Common pairings
cell membrane
mucous membrane
waterproof membrane
Word Forms
membranes plural
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The cell _____ controls what enters and leaves the cell.
Etymology
From Latin membrana ("skin covering a body part"), from membrum ("limb, body part").