microfilament

[mahy-kruh-fil-uh-muhnt]

noun

Cell Biology.

1. a minute, narrow tubelike cell structure composed of a protein similar to actin, occurring singly and in bundles, involved in cytoplasmic movement and changes in cell shape.

microfilament

/ ˌmaɪkrəʊˈfɪləmənt /

noun

1. thin filament, composed of the protein actin and associated proteins, that occurs abundantly in muscle and in the cytoplasm of other cells

Other Word Forms

• microfilamentous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of microfilament¹

First recorded in 1960–65; micro- + filament

Example Sentences

In tuna longlining, the ship uses a line made of thick microfilament, sometimes stretching as long as 40 miles, with baited hooks attached at intervals.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

But the DHS drone to be tested at the golf club will be tethered using a microfilament cable, which connects it to a power source.

Read more on The Guardian

It is equipped with optical and infrared cameras and will be physically linked via a microfilament tether to a power source.

Read more on BBC

The drone has electro-optical and infrared cameras to look for potential threats and is on a microfilament tether that provides power to the craft.

Read more on Reuters

The drone has electro-optical and infrared cameras to look for potential threats and is on a microfilament tether that provides power to the craft.

Read more on Reuters