nematic

adjective

ne·​mat·​ic ni-ˈma-tik How to pronounce nematic (audio)
: of, relating to, or being the phase of a liquid crystal characterized by arrangement of the long axes of the molecules in parallel lines but not layers compare cholesteric, smectic

Examples of nematic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The HP 23er monitor is built around a micro-edge LED-backlit in-plane switching panel, which provides stellar color and contrast when compared to vertical alignment and twisted nematic panels. Allen Foster, chicagotribune.com, 22 Dec. 2020 Twisted nematic displays are known for their high refresh rates and low prices. Scharon Harding, Ars Technica, 25 June 2022

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary nemat- + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nematic was in 1923

Dictionary Entries Near nematic

Cite this Entry

“Nematic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nematic. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

nematic

adjective
ne·​mat·​ic ni-ˈmat-ik How to pronounce nematic (audio)
: of, relating to, or being the phase of a liquid crystal characterized by arrangement of the long axes of the molecules in parallel lines but not layers
nematic polypeptide liquid crystals
compare smectic
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