Lichtenberg figure

noun

Lich·​ten·​berg figure
ˈliktənˌbərg-
: a pattern of branching lines formed by fine powder (as of sulfur) dusted over an insulating surface across which an electric-leakage discharge has recently taken place

Word History

Etymology

after Georg Christoph Lichtenberg †1799 German physicist and writer

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near Lichtenberg figure

Cite this Entry

“Lichtenberg figure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Lichtenberg%20figure. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!