thixotropy

[ thik-so-truh-pee ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. the property exhibited by certain gels of becoming liquid when stirred or shaken.

Other Words From

• thix·o·trop·ic [thik-s, uh, -, trop, -ik, -, troh, -pik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of thixotropy¹

1925–30; < Greek thíx ( is ) touch + -o- + -tropy

Example Sentences

Bentonite assists drilling because of a property called thixotropy, which causes drilling mud to liquefy in the friction of drilling and solidify when the motion stops.

From Los Angeles Times

Bentonite assists drilling because of a property called thixotropy, which causes drilling mud to liquefy in the friction of drilling and solidify when the motion stops.

From Washington Times