A compound containing a large organic cation or anion which possesses a long unbranched hydrocarbon chain, e.g. H3C(CH2)nCO2-M+ H3C(CH2)nSO3-M+ H3C(CH2)nN(CH3)3
From the greek meaning 'both' (something like amphi) and 'lover' (something like philos). An amphiphile is a molecule that has a strong attraction towards both polar solvents (like a hydrophile) and non-polar solvents (like a hydrophobe) and will end up concentrated at the interface between the two. 
Synonym: amphipathic. ... Origin: amphi-+ G. Philos, fond ... (05 Mar 2000) ... 
Having affinity for two different environments - for example a molecule with hydrophilic (polar) and lipophilic (non-polar) regions. Detergents are classic examples. Antonym of amphipathic.
Type: Term Pronunciation: am′fē-fil′ik Synonyms: amphipathic
amphiphilic Of or relating to a molecule having a polar, water-soluble group attached to a nonpolar, water-insoluble hydrocarbon chain.