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 the case of the UCSB experiment, the soap reduces local surface tension around the red dye to set the dye in motion. —Ars Technica, 28 Feb. 2025

Altering the surface tension causes the colored liquid to either spread out and reflect light or ball up and allow the light through. —IEEE Spectrum, 29 Jan. 2013

The difference in their alcohol concentrations creates a surface tension gradient, driving the flow. —Ars Technica, 28 Feb. 2025

One way to make a reflective display is to alter the surface tension of liquid pixels. —IEEE Spectrum, 29 Jan. 2013

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for surface tension

• chemoprevention
• hyperextension
• incomprehension
• misapprehension
• apprehension
• comprehension
• condescension
• hypertension
• hypotension
• reinvention
• reprehension
• resuspension

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