capillarity

noun

cap·il·lar·i·ty | \ ˌka-pə-ˈler-ə-tē

, -ˈla-rə-\

plural capillarities

Definition of capillarity

1 : the property or state of being capillary

2 : the action by which the surface of a liquid where it is in contact with a solid (as in a capillary tube) is elevated or depressed depending on the relative attraction of the molecules of the liquid for each other and for those of the solid

Examples of capillarity in a Sentence

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But dispersion is caused by its capillarity — the surface tension effect that makes some liquids rise in straws. — Quanta Magazine, "Famous Fluid Equations Are Incomplete," 21 July 2015 In most fluids, capillarity is negligible compared to viscosity. — Quanta Magazine, "Famous Fluid Equations Are Incomplete," 21 July 2015

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'capillarity.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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The first known use of capillarity was in 1830

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capillarity

noun

cap·il·lar·i·ty | \ ˌkap-ə-ˈlar-ət-ē

plural capillarities

Medical Definition of capillarity

: the action by which the surface of a liquid where it is in contact with a solid (as in a capillary tube) is elevated or depressed depending on the relative attraction of the molecules of the liquid for each other and for those of the solid