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laminar flow
noun
: uninterrupted flow in a fluid near a solid boundary in which the direction of flow at every point remains constant compare turbulent flow
Examples of laminar flow in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Today, laminar flow is used in both watercraft and aircraft as a means of reducing drag and increasing speed.
—David Szondy, New Atlas, 18 July 2024
This layer is almost frictionless, allowing the water around the dolphin to simply slide over in what is called laminar flow.
—David Szondy, New Atlas, 18 July 2024
Fluids move down the channel in organized parallel streams – called laminar flow.
—Albert Folch, Discover Magazine, 19 May 2021
The fluids and particles in laminar flow follow paths that are mathematically predictable – a necessity for precision engineering and medical device design.
—Albert Folch, Discover Magazine, 19 May 2021
The EPA WaterSense certified faucet also features a spout made with laminar flow, which helps conserve water during use.
—Rachel Simon, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Oct. 2022
If the shape of the car generates a good laminar flow along the bodywork, the tufts will stream in that direction.
—Jonathan M. Gitlin, Ars Technica, 28 Apr. 2022
But if laminar flow works so well, why aren't all planes designed like this?
—Jacopo Prisco, CNN, 5 Nov. 2021
The front end features tiny, hard-to-spot fins and holes designed to create a perfect laminar flow along the body of the car.
—Ben Oliver, Car and Driver, 30 Sep. 2021
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'laminar flow.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1935, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near laminar flow
Cite this Entry
“Laminar flow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/laminar%20flow. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
More from Merriam-Webster on laminar flow
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about laminar flow
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