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Filament Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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filament

[หˆfษชlษ™mษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a light bulb

A filament is a thin wire inside a light bulb that gets hot and produces light when an electric current passes through it.

Synonyms

coil, element, wire.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
filament

Typically used to refer to a thin, thread-like structure, often found in light bulbs or biological contexts.

  • The filament in the light bulb burned out, so we need to replace it.
  • Spider silk is a natural filament that is incredibly strong.
wire

Refers to a thin, flexible strand or rod of metal, used to bear mechanical loads or conduct electricity.

  • The electrician used copper wire to connect the circuits.
  • Barbed wire fences are common on farms to keep animals in place.
coil

Used when referring to a series of loops or a helical shape, often in the context of wires, springs, or cables.

  • The rope was wound into a neat coil.
  • The spring inside the clock is a tightly wound coil.
element

Commonly used in the context of electrical components or chemicals, referring to a part that is essential to a system.

  • The heating element in the oven needs to be replaced.
  • Oxygen is a vital element for life.

Examples of usage

  • The filament in an incandescent light bulb glows brightly when electricity flows through it.
  • When the filament in the light bulb burns out, the bulb needs to be replaced.
  • The filament is an essential component of a traditional light bulb.
Context #2 | Noun

in 3D printing

In 3D printing, a filament refers to the material used to create the physical object by depositing thin layers of the material on top of each other.

Synonyms

material, polymer, resin.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
filament

When discussing fine, thread-like structures, especially in biological or 3D printing contexts.

  • The lightbulb contains a tungsten filament
  • The 3D printer uses a PLA filament
material

Used broadly to refer to substances or elements that can be used to make something.

  • We need more raw material to continue the production
  • The building is constructed using sustainable materials
polymer

When referring to large, complex molecules made up of repeating structural units, often used in chemistry and manufacturing.

  • Polyethylene is a common polymer used in packaging
  • Plastics are typically made from synthetic polymers
resin

When discussing viscous substances, either natural or synthetic, which can be hardened for use in manufacturing, arts, and crafts.

  • The sculpture was finished with an epoxy resin coating
  • Many plants exude resin as a protection mechanism

Examples of usage

  • The 3D printer uses a plastic filament to create the object layer by layer.
  • The filament used in 3D printing can be made of various materials such as PLA or ABS.
  • Changing the filament in a 3D printer allows for different colors or properties in the printed object.
Context #3 | Noun

in biology

In biology, a filament is a long chain of cells that are attached end to end, forming a structure like a thread.

Synonyms

fiber, stalk, strand.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
filament

Used to describe a very fine, thread-like structure, often in a scientific or technical context.

  • The filament inside the light bulb is made of tungsten.
  • Spider silk is known for its strong yet flexible filaments.
strand

Refers to a single thin length of something, such as thread, wire, or hair. Can also imply something complex like DNA strands.

  • A single strand of her hair fell across her face.
  • The rope was made of several intertwined strands.
fiber

Commonly used to refer to a thread or filament from which a textile is formed, often in the context of materials or nutrition.

  • Cotton is a natural fiber used in many types of clothing.
  • Dietary fiber is important for a healthy digestive system.
stalk

Typically used to describe the main stem of a plant, can also imply following someone or something in a predatory manner (negative).

  • The sunflower has a thick, tall stalk.
  • He felt uneasy as he walked home, sensing he was being stalked.

Examples of usage

  • The filament of a plant is responsible for transferring nutrients and water throughout the organism.
  • The stamen of a flower consists of an anther and filament.
  • The filamentous algae provides habitats for various marine organisms.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In electronics, filaments are often made of tungsten because it can withstand high temperatures and light up when electricity passes through.
  • In biology, filament structures are vital for the movement and growth of certain organisms, like fungi and algae.

Pop Culture

  • Several films and TV shows have depicted light bulbs filled with glowing filaments as a symbol of innovation and ideas.
  • Artists sometimes use filaments creatively in installations to represent connections and networks in society.

Technology

  • In 3D printing, filaments are the materials used to build objects layer by layer, showcasing their importance in modern manufacturing.
  • Advancements in filament materials are leading to stronger, lighter, and more efficient products in electronics and engineering.

Literature

  • Filaments are often used metaphorically in literature to represent the threads of life that connect characters and themes.
  • In poetry, poets may liken the intricate details of emotions to filaments, suggesting fragility and connection.

Origin of 'filament'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'filamentum', which means 'a little thread'.
  • It first appeared in English texts during the late 15th century, reflecting its usage in various scientific contexts.

The word 'filament' comes from the Latin word 'filamentum', which means a thread or fiber. It has been used in various fields such as physics, biology, and technology to describe thin, elongated structures. The concept of a filament has evolved over time with advancements in science and technology, playing a crucial role in innovations like light bulbs and 3D printing.

See also: filaments.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,082, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.