boundary layer

noun

: a region of fluid (such as air) moving relative to a nearby surface (such as that of an airplane wing) that is slowed by the viscosity of the fluid and its adhesion to the surface

Examples of boundary layer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These results show that the chemical composition, density and structure of this boundary layer are sensitive and responsive on a much shorter time frame than previously imagined. Carly Miller, Forbes, 27 Sep. 2024 The 66-million-year-old Cretaceous-Paleogene (K-Pg) boundary layer at Stevns Klint in Denmark. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 15 Aug. 2024 Ideally, the boundary layer should sit next to the skin, which helps to keep it smooth. The Physics Arxiv Blog, Discover Magazine, 26 Mar. 2024 According to the carmaker, plasma actuators use electric charges to adjust the boundary layer of air moving over a surface—in this case the rear end. Peter Lyon, Forbes, 13 Nov. 2023 See all Example Sentences for boundary layer 

Word History

First Known Use

1921, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of boundary layer was in 1921

Dictionary Entries Near boundary layer

Cite this Entry

“Boundary layer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/boundary%20layer. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on boundary layer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!