thin film

noun

: a very thin layer of a substance on a supporting material

especially : a coating (as of a semiconductor) that is deposited in a layer one atom or one molecule thick

Examples of thin film in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

It can be printed as a thin film over large surface areas or applied directly as a protective industrial coating. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 18 Sep. 2026

Cook, stirring vigorously and breaking up pockets of flour as needed, until a thin film forms on bottom and sides of pan and dough comes together into a single mass, 2–3 minutes. — Alexia Duchêne, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 Sep. 2026

Straws, utensils, thin film and bottles were put in different environments across Florida, California and Maine. — ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026

Apple has used the technology for many years on a number of products, including on various iPhone models to create a durable thin film on the casing to minimize scratching and other damage. — Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for thin film

• biofilm
• microfilm