viscous
What does "viscous" mean?
Viscous describes a substance that is thick, sticky, and semi-fluid in consistency, much like honey, syrup, or motor oil. The mental image is of a liquid that resists flowing quickly, pouring with a slow, heavy, and deliberate movement. In usage, it is often employed in scientific or culinary contexts. While "sticky" is a common synonym, "viscous" specifically implies a resistance to flow or shear stress, making it a more precise term for describing materials like molten glass or heavy oils.
"viscous" in conversation
In a chemistry lab
The reaction is slowing down because the mixture is becoming too viscous.
The reaction is slowing down because the mixture is becoming too viscous.
Should we add a solvent to thin it out?
Should we add a solvent to thin it out?
Used here to describe a technical fluid state.
In the kitchen
Make sure the glaze is viscous enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Make sure the glaze is viscous enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Got it, I'll keep reducing it on low heat.
Got it, I'll keep reducing it on low heat.
Used here to describe ideal culinary consistency.
"viscous" in a sentence
Honey is a very viscous liquid.
Honey is a very viscous liquid.
The viscous lava flowed slowly down the side of the volcano.
The viscous lava flowed slowly down the side of the volcano.
Engineers measure the viscous properties of lubricants to ensure optimal machine performance.
Engineers measure the viscous properties of lubricants to ensure optimal machine performance.
