periplasm

noun

peri·​plasm ˈper-ə-ˌpla-zəm How to pronounce periplasm (audio)
: the region in a gram-negative bacterium between the plasma membrane and an outer surrounding membrane that contains especially enzymes and a thin layer of peptidoglycan
periplasmic adjective

Examples of periplasm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Any drug that wants to get into a Gram-negative bacterium's cell must traverse both membranes and the periplasm—no small feat. Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 5 Jan. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'periplasm.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of periplasm was in 1961

Dictionary Entries Near periplasm

Cite this Entry

“Periplasm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/periplasm. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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