friction
noun
fric·tion
ˈfrik-shən 
1
a
: the rubbing of one body against another
the friction of sandpaper on wood
b
: the force that resists relative motion between two bodies in contact
oil in a car engine reduces friction
2
: the clashing between two persons or parties of opposed views : disagreement
friction between neighbors
friction between state and federal authorities
3
: sound produced by the movement of air through a narrow constriction in the mouth or glottis
frictionlessly
adverb
Examples of friction in a Sentence
the friction of sandpaper on wood
Oil in a car engine reduces friction.
It was difficult to reach an agreement because of the friction between the two sides.
Recent Examples on the Web
The club said a meeting would be held with fans but even that caused friction, with more letters and messages being published to ensure that was held.
—
Sam Lee, New York Times, 9 Apr. 2025
These technologies help streamline workflows, improve user experience and ensure that traders have access to real-time data across multiple applications without friction.
—Pooja Jain, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
As the Signal chats showed, there are differences of opinion within Trump’s national-security team, and much more serious friction with the administration’s nominal allies in Europe.
—Robert F. Worth, The Atlantic, 8 Apr. 2025
All of our experts agree that silk and satin bonnets protect hair from the harsh friction caused by cotton pillowcases, which can lead to dryness, tangles, frizz, and breakage over time.
—Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 5 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for friction
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Sam Lee, New York Times, 9 Apr. 2025
These technologies help streamline workflows, improve user experience and ensure that traders have access to real-time data across multiple applications without friction.
—Pooja Jain, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
As the Signal chats showed, there are differences of opinion within Trump’s national-security team, and much more serious friction with the administration’s nominal allies in Europe.
—Robert F. Worth, The Atlantic, 8 Apr. 2025
All of our experts agree that silk and satin bonnets protect hair from the harsh friction caused by cotton pillowcases, which can lead to dryness, tangles, frizz, and breakage over time.
—Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 5 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for friction
Cite this Entry
“Friction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/friction. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
friction
noun
fric·tion
ˈfrik-shən
1
a
: the rubbing of one thing against another
b
: the force that resists motion between bodies in contact
the friction of a box sliding along the floor
lubrication reduces friction
2
: disagreement between persons or groups
3
: sound produced by the movement of air through a narrow constriction in the mouth or glottis
Etymology
Middle English friction "a rubbing of two things together, friction," from early French friction or Latin friction-, frictio (both same meaning), derived from Latin fricare "to rub" — related to fray entry 2
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