cell membrane


noun Biology.

the semipermeable membrane enclosing the cytoplasm of a cell.

Origin of cell membrane

First recorded in 1865–70

Example sentences from the Web for cell membrane

British Dictionary definitions for cell membrane

cell membrane

noun

a very thin membrane, composed of lipids and protein, that surrounds the cytoplasm of a cell and controls the passage of substances into and out of the cell Also called: plasmalemma, plasma membrane

Medical definitions for cell membrane

cell membrane

n.

The semipermeable membrane that encloses the cytoplasm of a cell. cytomembrane plasmalemma plasma membrane

Scientific definitions for cell membrane

cell membrane

The thin membrane that forms the outer surface of the protoplasm of a cell and regulates the passage of materials in and out of the cell. It is made up of proteins and lipids and often contains molecular receptors. The membranes of organelles within the cell are made of the same basic material as the cell membrane. In plant cells, the cell membrane is surrounded by a rigid cell wall. Also called plasma membrane Compare cell wall. See more at cell.

Cultural definitions for cell membrane

cell membrane

The structure separating an animal cell from its environment or a plant cell from its cell wall. The cell membrane is a complex system that allows nutrients to enter the cell and waste products to leave, usually through osmosis.