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

Although combining these delicate thin films usually causes damage and blocks light, special protection layers and modified electrodes overcome these assembly issues to maximize power output. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 3 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