liquid crystal

noun

1. a liquid having certain crystalline characteristics, especially different optical properties in different directions when exposed to an electric field.

liquid crystal

noun

1. a liquid that has some crystalline characteristics, such as the presence of different optical properties in different directions; a substance in a mesomorphic state See also smectic nematic

liquid crystal

1. Any of various liquids in which molecules are regularly arrayed like a solid crystal along one or two dimensions, but are free in the other dimensions as with typical liquids. Liquid crystals often display unusual and often manipulable optical properties such as anisotropic scattering.
2. See more at LCD

Word History and Origins

Origin of liquid crystal¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

And earlier this year, Sargent's group incorporated liquid crystals to minimize the defects in perovskite films, leading to enhanced device performance.

From Science Daily

Using these compounds, they produced liquid crystals with high electrical conductivity and thermotropic properties.

From Science Daily

By introducing air bubbles, comparable in size to a human hair, into the liquid crystal and manipulating the pressure, the researchers were able to demonstrate this extraordinary phenomenon.

From Science Daily

Researchers have developed a new way to control and manipulate optical signals by embedding a liquid crystal layer into waveguides created with direct laser writing.

From Science Daily

Robots and cameras of the future could be made of liquid crystals, thanks to a new discovery that significantly expands the potential of the chemicals already common in computer displays and digital watches.

From Science Daily