clathrate: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Scientific / Technical
Quick answer
What does “clathrate” mean?
A chemical compound in which molecules of one component are physically trapped within the cagelike crystal structure of another, forming a lattice.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A chemical compound in which molecules of one component are physically trapped within the cagelike crystal structure of another, forming a lattice.
Any structure having a lattice-like or grid-like appearance, or a substance (e.g., methane hydrate) where guest molecules are enclosed in a host lattice.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage between British and American English.
Connotations
Purely technical/scientific term with no regional connotative differences.
Frequency
Equally rare in general usage in both dialects, limited to specialist contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “clathrate” in a Sentence
The [SUBSTANCE] forms a clathrate with [HOST].A clathrate of [GUEST] in [HOST] was synthesised.The [MATERIAL] has a clathrate structure.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “clathrate” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The sample exhibited a distinct clathrate morphology under the microscope.
American English
- Researchers are studying the clathrate phases of the new silicon alloy.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used, except in highly specialised industries like energy (methane hydrates) or advanced materials.
Academic
Common in chemistry, geology, environmental science, and materials science journals and textbooks.
Everyday
Extremely rare; would not be understood by the general public without explanation.
Technical
The primary domain of use. Refers precisely to compounds with trapped molecules in a lattice framework.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “clathrate”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “clathrate”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “clathrate”
- Using 'clathrate' as a verb (e.g., 'to clathrate'). The verb form is not standard; use 'to form a clathrate'.
- Confusing it with 'chelates', which involve chemical bonds, not physical trapping.
- Misspelling as 'clatharate' or 'clathrade'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a highly specialised scientific term (C2 level) not used in everyday conversation.
No, standard usage is as a noun or adjective. The process is described as 'forming a clathrate'.
Methane clathrate (or methane hydrate), a solid found in permafrost and ocean sediments where methane is trapped in a water ice lattice.
Physical entrapment of 'guest' molecules within the cavities of a 'host' lattice without strong chemical bonding.
A chemical compound in which molecules of one component are physically trapped within the cagelike crystal structure of another, forming a lattice.
Clathrate is usually scientific / technical in register.
Clathrate: in British English it is pronounced /ˈklæθreɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈklæθreɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No idioms exist for this technical term.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a CLATter of molecules TRAPped inside a decorative metal grATE (clathrate).
Conceptual Metaphor
A PRISON/CAGE for molecules (guest molecules imprisoned in a host lattice).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'clathrate' MOST commonly used?