tribology

noun

tri·​bol·​o·​gy trī-ˈbä-lə-jē How to pronounce tribology (audio) tri- How to pronounce tribology (audio)
: a study that deals with the design, friction, wear, and lubrication of interacting surfaces in relative motion (as in bearings or gears)
tribological adjective
tribologist noun

Examples of tribology in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In fact, tribology’s influence on global energy consumption, emissions, healthcare and sustainability has never been more immediate. Adrienne Bernhard, Popular Mechanics, 20 Mar. 2023

Word History

Etymology

tribo- + -logy

First Known Use

1966, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tribology was in 1966

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Cite this Entry

“Tribology.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tribology. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

tribology

noun
tri·​bol·​o·​gy trī-ˈbäl-ə-jē How to pronounce tribology (audio) trib-ˈäl- How to pronounce tribology (audio)
plural tribologies
: a branch of mechanical engineering that deals with the design, friction, wear, and lubrication of interacting surfaces (as bodily joints) in relative motion
tribological adjective

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