A type of inclusion compound in which small molecules are trapped in the cagelike lattice of macromolecules. [L. clathrare, pp. -atus, to furnish with a lattice]
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clath·rate 'klath-.rāt adj relating to or being a compound formed by the inclusion of molecules of one kind in cavities of the crystal lattice of another
clathrate n a clathrate compound
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clath·rate (klathґrāt) [L. clathare to provide with a lattice] 1. having the shape or appearance of a lattice. 2. clathrate compound. 3. pertaining to such a compound.Medical dictionary. 2011.