microtubule

noun

mi·​cro·​tu·​bule ˌmī-krō-ˈtü-(ˌ)byül How to pronounce microtubule (audio)
-ˈtyü-
: any of the minute tubules in eukaryotic cytoplasm that are composed of the protein tubulin and form an important component of the cytoskeleton, mitotic spindle, cilia, and flagella
microtubular
ˌmī-krō-ˈtü-byə-lər How to pronounce microtubule (audio)
-ˈtyü-
adjective

Examples of microtubule in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These synapses are supported by 'rail tracks' that enable the flow of essential nutrients and information, and they're called microtubules. — New Atlas, 15 Feb. 2025 Found exclusively in neurons, tau proteins bind to the internal skeleton-like structure of cells, known as microtubules. — William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of microtubule was in 1961

Rhymes for microtubule

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microtubule
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Cite this Entry

“Microtubule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/microtubule. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

microtubule

noun
mi·​cro·​tu·​bule ˌmī-krō-ˈt(y)ü-(ˌ)byü(ə)l How to pronounce microtubule (audio)
: any of the minute tubules in eukaryotic cytoplasm that are composed of the protein tubulin and form an important component of the cytoskeleton, mitotic spindle, cilia, and flagella
microtubular
-byə-lər How to pronounce microtubule (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on microtubule

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about microtubule

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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