bilayer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1+Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “bilayer” mean?
A structure consisting of two molecular layers.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A structure consisting of two molecular layers.
Any structure composed of two distinct layers, particularly in nanotechnology, materials science, or biology (e.g., lipid bilayers in cell membranes).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in usage. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent.
Connotations
None beyond the scientific/technical field.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both dialects, confined to specialist literature.
Grammar
How to Use “bilayer” in a Sentence
N + bilayer (e.g., lipid bilayer)bilayer + of + N (e.g., bilayer of phospholipids)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bilayer” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The bilayer model was proposed.
- Bilayer properties were analysed.
American English
- They studied the bilayer system.
- Bilayer formation is crucial.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in high-tech investment or pharmaceutical R&D contexts.
Academic
Common in biochemistry, materials science, nanotechnology, and biophysics literature.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
The primary domain of use; a standard term in relevant fields.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bilayer”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bilayer”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bilayer”
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'The lipids bilayer').
- Using it to describe any two generic layers (e.g., 'a bilayer of paint').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a specialised technical term used primarily in scientific disciplines.
No, 'bilayer' is exclusively a noun (and derived adjective). The process is described as 'forming a bilayer' or 'self-assembling into a bilayer'.
The lipid bilayer that constitutes the core structure of all biological cell membranes.
In technical contexts, they are often synonymous. However, 'bilayer' strongly implies the two layers are intimately associated and form a unified structure (like a membrane), while 'double layer' can be more general.
A structure consisting of two molecular layers.
Bilayer is usually technical/scientific in register.
Bilayer: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbaɪˌleɪ.ər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbaɪˌleɪ.ɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'BI' (two) + 'LAYER' = a structure with exactly two layers.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SANDWICH (two distinct outer layers with a filling) or a DUPLEX (a two-unit structure).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'bilayer' most commonly used?