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friction Definition

fric·tion (friks̸hən)

noun

  1. a rubbing, esp. of one object against another
  2. disagreement or conflict because of differences of opinion, temperament, etc.
  3. Mech. the resistance to motion of two moving objects or surfaces that touch

Etymology: Fr < L frictio < pp. of fricare, to rub: see friable

friction Related Forms
fric·tion·less adjective
friction Synonyms

friction

n.

  1. The rubbing of two bodies

    abrasion, attrition, wearing away, erosion, rasping, filing, grinding, grating, scraping, massage, chafing, irritation.

  2. Trouble between individuals or groups

    conflict, discord, dissension, animosity; see disagreement 1, dispute.

  3. Resistance

    impedance, counteraction, interference; see resistance 3.

friction Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • reduce: Use a mouse mat to reduce friction on the desk top.
  • overcome: The minimum level may be dictated by control issues or the ability of the resource to overcome friction.
  • eliminate: The ball rides on an air bearing support, in order to eliminate friction.
  • cause: Spending to much time together may cause friction in the relationship.
  • minimize: One of the mechanical problems that has to be overcome to produce a good watch is to minimize the friction between the moving parts.
  • slide: Rolling friction is generally considerably less than sliding friction.

Adjective modifier

  • prolonged: When caused by prolonged friction or pressure, Bursitis is also known as a ' beat ' condition, for example, Beat Elbow.
  • reduced: The benefits include reduced friction, cooling, impact resistance at higher chain speeds.
  • unnecessary: Examine all of your rigging and ensure that your lines do not cross or chafe against anything causing unnecessary friction.
  • static: Tests are used to evaluate the friction between piston and cylinder one for dynamic friction, and one for static friction.
  • low: The sheet is made of nylon with ultra low friction.
  • less: The whole idea was: less friction = more distance.

Modifies a noun

  • coefficient: Typical friction coefficients for these types of bearings are between 0.001 - 0.01.
  • damper: Morris axles and brakes were used, special springs made, and racy Hartford friction dampers fitted at the rear.
  • modifier: It contains friction modifier which is recommended for limited-slip units.
  • clutch: The high speed range was engaged by a separate friction clutch acting directly on the spindle.
  • hinge: The window also has positively locating stainless steel friction stay hinges.
  • burn: I know some dogs left the ring with friction burns to their feet.

Noun used with modifier

  • skin: Speeding up the pace makes the task even harder because skin friction rises with increased velocity.
  • pipe: The effect of pipe friction may be taken into account.
friction Quotes

Only thestudyof militaryhistory iscapable of giving those who have no experience of their own a clear picture of what I have just called the friction of the whole machine.

—Clausewitz, Karl von

In our lore, the Jewish family was an inviolate haven against every formof menace, frompersonal isolationto gentile hostility. Regardless of internal friction and strife, it was assumed to be an indissoluble consolidation† Family indivisibility, the first commandment.

—Roth, Philip Milton

The best machines and to be chosen aboveall others are those which consist of the fewest parts or which are the simplest, which produce the least friction; which are not too heavily loaded, and where the power can be convenientlyapplied without any waste.

—Leupold,Jakob

Browse dictionary entries near friction

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