viscoelastic

adjective

vis·​co·​elas·​tic ˌvi-skō-ə-ˈla-stik How to pronounce viscoelastic (audio)
: having appreciable and conjoint viscous and elastic properties
such viscoelastic materials as asphalt
also : constituting or relating to the state of viscoelastic materials
viscoelastic data
viscoelastic properties
viscoelasticity noun

Examples of viscoelastic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web To study the viscoelastic properties of the syrup and taffy samples, the team applied shearing forces and measured each material's response, and examined the rheological effects of various factors: temperature, sugar and water ratios, aeration (air bubbles), and emulsification. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 12 Sep. 2023 Additionally, joint side bars work to promote stability, and viscoelastic pads provide a massaging effect during usage. Jack Byram, Verywell Health, 15 Sep. 2023 These beds are designed with a viscoelastic material that conforms to the dog's body shape, providing optimal support and pressure point relief. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 24 May 2023 In the 1980s, NASA released the formula for viscoelastic foam (AKA temper foam) to the public. Allen Foster, chicagotribune.com, 13 Mar. 2021 That huge range of temperatures means the new material could be used in everything from spacecraft to car shock absorbers, said Roderic Lakes, a scientist at the University of Wisconsin who studies viscoelastic materials. Andrew Moseman, Discover Magazine, 3 Dec. 2010 Angelika Humbert would welcome input from people in other fields who study viscoelastic materials. IEEE Spectrum, 27 Jan. 2023 Her research combines data from field observations with viscoelastic modeling of ice sheet behavior. IEEE Spectrum, 27 Jan. 2023 Unlike typical memory foam mattresses, this layer is constructed without any viscoelastic chemicals that retain heat. Deirdre Mundorf, Discover Magazine, 17 Aug. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'viscoelastic.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

viscous + -o- + elastic

First Known Use

1935, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of viscoelastic was in 1935

Dictionary Entries Near viscoelastic

Cite this Entry

“Viscoelastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/viscoelastic. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

viscoelastic

adjective
vis·​co·​elas·​tic ˌvis-kō-ə-ˈlas-tik How to pronounce viscoelastic (audio)
: having appreciable and conjoint viscous and elastic properties
also : constituting or relating to the state of viscoelastic materials
viscoelastic properties
viscoelasticity noun
plural viscoelasticities
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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