nematic

[ ni-mat-ik ]

adjective

, Physical Chemistry.

1. noting a mesomorphic state in which the arrangement of the molecules is linear.

nematic

/ nɪˈmætɪk /

adjective

1. chem (of a substance) existing in or having a mesomorphic state in which a linear orientation of the molecules causes anisotropic properties Compare smectic See also liquid crystal

Word History and Origins

Origin of nematic¹

First recorded in 1920–25; nemat- + -ic

Word History and Origins

Origin of nematic¹

C20: nemat ( o ) - (referring to the threadlike chains of molecules in liquid) + -ic