liposome

noun

li·​po·​some ˈlī-pə-ˌsōm How to pronounce liposome (audio) ˈli- How to pronounce liposome (audio)
: an artificial vesicle composed of one or more concentric phospholipid bilayers and used especially to deliver microscopic substances (such as drugs or DNA) to body cells
liposomal
ˌlī-pə-ˈsō-məl How to pronounce liposome (audio) ˌli- How to pronounce liposome (audio)
adjective

Examples of liposome 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.
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 The ingredients are housed in liposomes to gradually release them throughout the day, creating a long-lasting effect. — Sarah Han, Allure, 15 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of liposome was in 1968

Rhymes for liposome

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liposome
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Cite this Entry

“Liposome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/liposome. Accessed 10 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

liposome

noun
li·​po·​some ˈlip-ə-ˌsōm How to pronounce liposome (audio) ˈlī-pə- How to pronounce liposome (audio)
1
: one of the fatty droplets in the cytoplasm of a cell
2
: an artificial vesicle that is composed of one or more concentric phospholipid bilayers and is used especially to deliver microscopic substances (as DNA or drugs) to body cells
liposomal
ˌlip-ə-ˈsō-məl How to pronounce liposome (audio) ˌlī-pə- How to pronounce liposome (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on liposome

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about liposome

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