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

Time Traveler
The first known use of laminar flow was in 1935

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.

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