cell wall

noun

: the usually rigid nonliving permeable wall that surrounds the plasma membrane and encloses and supports the cells of most plants, bacteria, fungi, and algae see cell illustration

Examples of cell wall in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These messages, carved into cell walls, are one of the few tangible remnants of the lives lost or forever scarred within. —Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 17 Jan. 2025

The digitization of detention means ICE and private prisons can expand their invisible cell walls anywhere, and the psychological burden is devastating. —Laura Hernandez, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Jan. 2025

For example, beta-lactam antibiotics like penicillin or Keflex (cephalexin) block molecules from linking together, preventing the formation of a cell wall. —Femi Aremu, Verywell Health, 19 Dec. 2024

Imai homed in on the smaller molecules that cells use to produce NAD+, which can more easily penetrate cell walls. —Mattie Kahn, Vogue, 17 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

cell wall

noun

: the firm nonliving layer that encloses and supports the cells of most plants, bacteria, fungi, and algae

Medical Definition

cell wall

noun

: the usually rigid nonliving permeable wall that surrounds the plasma membrane and encloses and supports the cells of most plants, bacteria, fungi, and algae