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surface tension
noun
: the attractive force exerted upon the surface molecules of a liquid by the molecules beneath that tends to draw the surface molecules into the bulk of the liquid and makes the liquid assume the shape having the least surface area
Examples of surface tension in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In its place is the all-purpose flour tortilla, to which rehydrated sauces and stews adhere thanks to surface tension.
—Nicola Twilley, WIRED, 11 Feb. 2020
Nature’s aversion to corners and straight edges might serve to save energy, the team writes in the paper, since forces like surface tension and elasticity end up smoothing out corners naturally.
—Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Sep. 2024
View 3 Images View gallery - 3 images Inspired by the surface tension of a droplet of liquid, researchers have created an adjustable wheel that alters shape in real-time, tackling uneven surfaces and high obstacles with ease.
—New Atlas, 15 Aug. 2024
The surface tension of a liquid results from an imbalance in the attractive or cohesive forces between molecules.
—New Atlas, 15 Aug. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1876, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near surface tension
Cite this Entry
“Surface tension.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surface%20tension. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
surface tension
noun
: the attractive force felt by surface molecules of a liquid from the molecules beneath that tends to draw the surface molecules into the mass of the liquid and makes the liquid take the shape having the least surface area
Medical Definition
surface tension
noun
: the attractive force exerted upon the surface molecules of a liquid by the molecules beneath that tends to draw the surface molecules into the bulk of the liquid and makes the liquid assume the shape having the least surface area
More from Merriam-Webster on surface tension
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about surface tension
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