adj. Describing something that is permeable to some things and not to others, as a cell membrane which allows some molecules through but blocks others substances.
The Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia
Capable of permitting the passage of certain molecules and of impeding that of others; said of membranes or septa which are permeable to the molecules of a solvent such as water, but which prevent the diffusion of the molecules of the dissolved substance.
WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.
adj. (of a membrane) selectively permeable
Word Usage
"Needless to say, this has the most profound implications for the semipermeable soul."