Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

dilatant

Adjective
/dɪˈleɪtənt/
Definition
A type of material that becomes more viscous when subjected to stress or shear, resulting in an increase in volume.
Examples
  • The dilatant behavior of the cornstarch and water mixture makes it unique in the world of non-Newtonian fluids.
  • When the paint is stirred rapidly, it shows dilatant properties, becoming more difficult to mix.
  • In the experiment, the dilatant paste demonstrated how shear applied resulted in a significant increase in viscosity.
Meaning
In its simplest terms, dilatant refers to substances that expand under pressure and become thicker or more resistant to flow.
Synonyms
  • Thickening
  • Viscous
  • Non-Newtonian