How Do You Spell PELLICLE?

Pronunciation: [pˈɛlɪkə͡l] (IPA)

The word "pellicle" is spelled with letter combinations that make it a little difficult to phonetically capture its correct spelling. Pronounced as /ˈpɛlɪkəl/, the word is made up of a combination of two letters that represent a single sound /ll/. This can be tricky for non-native English speakers or those unfamiliar with the intricacies of English spelling. Understanding the phonetic transcription of the word can help with proper pronunciation and spelling. Pellicle is a noun that refers to a thin film or membrane that covers something.

PELLICLE Meaning and Definition

  1. A pellicle is a thin, film-like layer that forms on the surface of certain materials or organisms. It can refer to either a natural or an artificial understanding.

    In biology, a pellicle commonly describes a protective covering or outer layer found in certain single-celled organisms, such as protozoa or algae. This thin layer, composed of proteins, cellulose, or other materials, acts as a shield, providing support and protection to the cell. The pellicle allows these organisms to maintain their shape and protects them from adverse environmental conditions.

    In the field of optics, a pellicle is an ultra-thin film typically made of a transparent material, such as plastic or glass. It is used as a beam splitter or a mirror in optical systems, allowing light to pass through or be reflected without causing distortion or interference. The pellicle is often preferred over traditional mirrors because it is exceptionally thin, reducing the risk of interfering with the optical path.

    Furthermore, a pellicle can also refer to a thin film that forms on the surface of liquids or solutions. This film is typically composed of substances that have come out of the solution due to evaporation or other processes. For example, a pellicle may form on the surface of wine during the aging process, contributing to the wine's flavor and mouthfeel.

    Overall, a pellicle is a versatile term used to describe different thin layers or films that serve various purposes in biology, optics, and other scientific disciplines.

  2. 1. Thin skin, cuticle. 2. A film or scum on the surface of a liquid; especially the scum on the surface of standing urine, epistasis.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. A thin skin or film; a fine film or crust which forms on a liquid mixture during evaporation; in bot., an extremely delicate superficial membrane or skin.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PELLICLE

Etymology of PELLICLE

The word "pellicle" originated from the Latin word "pellicula", which means "a small skin" or "a thin film". It is derived from the Latin noun "pellis", meaning "skin" or "hide". The term was first recorded in English in the late 16th century and referred to a thin skin or layer covering different objects or organisms. Over time, the meaning of "pellicle" expanded to include various contexts, such as a thin film formed on liquids, in photography, and even in biology to describe thin membranes or coatings.

Plural form of PELLICLE is PELLICLES

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