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cytomembrane

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈsaɪtəʊˌmɛmbrən/

KK: /ˈsaɪtəʊˌmɛmbrən/

noun
Definition

A thin layer that surrounds and protects a cell, controlling what enters and leaves it.


Example

The cytomembrane plays a crucial role in maintaining the cell's environment.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of the term cytomembrane?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it refers to the cell membrane, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! It's fascinating how it controls what goes in and out of the cell.
Sloth B
For sure! I love learning about how cells function.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
membrane
barrier
envelope
Antonyms
open
exposure
gap
Root Explanation

Cytomembrane → It is formed from "cyto-" (from Greek "kytos", meaning cell) and "membrane" (from Latin "membrana", meaning a thin skin or layer). The word "cytomembrane" refers to the thin layer that surrounds a cell, thus defining its boundary.

Memory Tip

Think of 'cell' ('cyto-') surrounded by a 'thin layer' ('membrane') — that's what a cytomembrane is, a layer that defines the cell.

Visually Confused Words
micromembrane
membrane
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