smectic

[ smek-tik ]

adjective

, Physical Chemistry.

1. noting a mesomorphic state in which the arrangement of the molecules is in layers or planes.

smectic

/ ˈsmɛktɪk /

adjective

1. chem (of a substance) existing in or having a mesomorphic state in which the molecules are oriented in layers Compare nematic See also liquid crystal

Word History and Origins

Origin of smectic¹

1665–75 for earlier sense “cleansing”; < Latin smēcticus < Greek smēktikós, equivalent to smēkt ( ós ) smeared, verbid of smḗchein to wash out, clean + -tikos -tic

Word History and Origins

Origin of smectic¹

C17: via Latin from Greek smēktikos, from smēkhein to wash; from the soaplike consistency of a smectic substance

Example Sentences

In the latter, the molecular ordering associated with different crystal phases — such as cholesteric, nematic and smectic phases — and, in particular, the anchoring of liquid crystals to surfaces can lead to diverse behaviour of Casimir-like forces9.

From Nature

This layer-like structure, in which the ordering within each layer remains nematic, is known as a smectic after the Greek word for soap.

From The Guardian