micelle

noun

mi·​celle mī-ˈsel How to pronounce micelle (audio)
: 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
micellar adjective

Examples of micelle 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.
Here, micelles pair with niacinamide to cleanse skin while controlling sebum production to keep skin fresh and balanced. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 18 Oct. 2024 Miniature compartments, such as lipid bilayers configured into capsules like liposomes and micelles, are important for cellular organization and function. Discover Magazine, 17 Oct. 2024 Once they’d been emptied of glucagon, the micelles did not trigger an immune response or cause organ damage. New Atlas, 6 Oct. 2024 Infused with micelles and white vinegar, this shampoo keeps oil strands in check and is gentle enough for daily use. Sharon Brandwein, Southern Living, 8 Aug. 2024 Loaded into micelles, aggregates of molecules that are both water-loving (hydrophilic) and fat-loving (lipophilic), that are delivered intranasally means the treatment quickly arrives in the brain via the nose-to-brain anatomical pathway, bypassing the BBB completely. New Atlas, 23 July 2024 Researchers at the Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Texas, tested a spray containing tiny lipophilic micelles (oil/fat particles that can carry substances through water) on aging mice, administering the treatment through their noses. Shannon McDonagh, Newsweek, 10 July 2024 Not your average water, this uses micelles to remove makeup and expertly cleanse the skin. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 5 Mar. 2024 That’s because micelles, or clusters of molecules that bind to dirt and oil, work by grabbing buildup off the skin (no harsh scrubbing needed). Jenna Ryu, SELF, 21 Feb. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin micella, from Latin mica

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of micelle was in 1881

Dictionary Entries Near micelle

Cite this Entry

“Micelle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/micelle. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

micelle

noun
mi·​celle mī-ˈsel How to pronounce micelle (audio)
: a unit of structure built up from polymeric molecules or ions: as
a
: an ordered region in a fiber (as of cellulose or rayon)
b
: a molecular aggregate that constitutes a colloidal particle

More from Merriam-Webster on micelle

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!