: plasma membrane
also : a proteinaceous subcellular layer below the plasma membrane especially of a euglena

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of periplast was in 1853

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Cite this Entry

“Periplast.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/periplast. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

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