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
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.
Insect hemolymph is not the only type of bodily fluid that demonstrates viscoelastic properties. Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 8 Apr. 2024 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 This new ability allows robot designers to tailor the properties of viscoelastic damping materials in order to reduce impact forces and isolate vibrations. Erico Guizzo, IEEE Spectrum, 21 Oct. 2016

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Viscoelastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/viscoelastic. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!