clathrate

/ˈklæθreɪt/
noun
  1. A chemical compound in which molecules of one substance are trapped inside the crystal structure of another substance.
    • The clathrate structure trapped gas molecules inside ice crystals.
    • Methane clathrate is found in ocean sediments and permafrost.
    • Scientists study clathrates as a potential energy source.
adjective
  1. Having a lattice-like structure that can trap other molecules.
    • The clathrate cage held the guest molecule securely.
    • Researchers synthesized a new clathrate material for gas storage.
    • Clathrate compounds form under high pressure and low temperature.
What does "clathrate" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean