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Definition of friction

friction

/ˈfrɪk.ʃən/
fric · tion
Adverb:frictionally
•
Plural:frictions
•
Adjective:frictional
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friction Lexical Profile

friction Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The physical resistance that one surface or object encounters when moving over another.

Example

"The engineers used specialized oil to reduce the friction between the moving parts of the engine."

2

Conflict or animosity caused by a clash of wills, temperaments, or opinions.

Example

"There is constant friction between the sales and engineering departments regarding project timelines."

3

The action of rubbing one surface or object against another.

Example

"The friction of the two dry sticks rubbing together eventually generated enough heat to start a fire."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for friction
Antonyms
View all antonyms for friction

• Rhymes for friction

• Nearby Words

friary
fricassee
fricking
friction
frictional
frictionless
frictionlessly

Word Origin & Etymology

Mid 16th century: from French, or from Latin frictio(n-), from the verb fricare 'to rub'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Friction. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/friction
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