Knoop hardness

noun

ˈnüp-

: the relative hardness of a material (as a metal) that is determined by the depth to which the bluntly pointed diamond pyramid of a special instrument will penetrate it

Word History

Etymology

after F. Knoop, 20th century American chemist

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!