1. having both hydrophilic (water-loving) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) properties; capable of interacting with both polar and nonpolar substances.
Usage: chemistry and biochemistry term; commonly used in discussions of surfactants, detergents, and biological membranes

Examples

• Soap is an amphiphilic molecule that allows oil and water to mix.
• Phospholipids are amphiphilic compounds that form the bilayer structure of cell membranes.
• The amphiphilic nature of detergents makes them effective at removing grease from dishes.
• Scientists designed an amphiphilic polymer to improve drug delivery to target cells.
• Amphiphilic surfactants reduce surface tension at the interface between oil and water.