microfibril

noun

Pronunciation: /ˌmaɪkroʊˈfaɪbrɪl/

Definition

A microscopic, elongated fiber composed of bundled cellulose chains found in the cell walls of plants.

Examples

• The orientation of each microfibril determines the direction in which the plant cell will expand as it grows.

• Researchers used electron microscopy to visualize how the microfibril network supports the structural integrity of the wood.

• Cellulose molecules aggregate to form a microfibril, providing the tensile strength necessary for trees to stand upright.

Synonyms of microfibril

Words with a similar meaning to microfibril:

• fiber
• filament
• fibril

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