Liquids Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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liquids

[ˈlɪkwɪds ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in cooking

Liquids are substances that flow freely and have a definite volume, but no definite shape. They are commonly used in cooking to add moisture, flavor, or to deglaze a pan.

Synonyms

beverages, fluids, juices.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
liquids

Used in general or scientific contexts to reference anything that flows and has no fixed shape. Covers a wide range of substances.

  • 'Water and oil are both liquids
  • ' 'He studied the different properties of various liquids
  • '
fluids

Commonly used in scientific or technical contexts to describe substances that can flow, including gases and liquids.

  • 'Engineers are studying the behavior of fluids in microgravity
  • ' 'Fluids like water and air are crucial to life as we know it
  • '
beverages

Used when referring to drinks meant for consumption. Often in everyday or food-related contexts.

  • 'The restaurant offers a variety of beverages
  • ' 'She ordered a cold beverage on a hot day
  • '
juices

Used to describe the liquid extracted from fruits and vegetables, often consumed as a drink.

  • 'She prefers fresh juices to soda
  • ' 'Orange juice is a common breakfast drink
  • '

Examples of usage

  • Liquids such as water, broth, and oil are commonly used in cooking recipes.
  • Add a liquid like milk or cream to make the sauce more creamy.
Context #2 | Noun

in chemistry

In chemistry, liquids are one of the three classical states of matter (along with solids and gases). They have a definite volume but take the shape of their container.

Synonyms

fluids, melts, solutions.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
liquids

This term is typically used when referring to substances that are in a liquid state at room temperature, such as water, oil, or juice.

  • She poured the liquids into separate containers.
  • Scientists study the properties of different liquids.
fluids

This is a broader term that includes both liquids and gases. It is often used in scientific, engineering, and medical contexts.

  • Fluids are essential for the body's hydration.
  • Engineers work with various fluids in the mechanics of hydraulics.
solutions

This term is used in chemistry to refer to a liquid mixture where one substance (a solute) is dissolved in another (a solvent). It can also refer to problem-solving, but in the context of liquids, it is specific to chemistry.

  • Saltwater is a common example of a solution.
  • The scientist prepared a solution for the experiment.
melts

This word is used to describe the process of a solid turning into a liquid, usually when heated. It is less commonly used to refer to liquids in general.

  • When the ice melts, water forms.
  • The chocolate melts in your mouth.

Examples of usage

  • The liquid state of matter is characterized by molecules that are close together but can move past each other.
  • Water is a common liquid that exhibits unique properties at different temperatures.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Liquids have a definite volume but no fixed shape, allowing them to take the form of any container.
  • Many substances can exist in liquid form at room temperature, including water, oil, and alcohol.
  • The behavior of liquids, like how they pour, is influenced by their viscosity, which is how thick or thin they are.

Everyday Life

  • Common liquids include things we drink, like water, milk, and soda, and others like gasoline or cleaning supplies.
  • Some liquids are essential for life, with water being the most crucial for all living organisms.
  • In cooking, liquids are vital for various processes, from boiling to emulsifying ingredients in dressings.

Technology

  • In electronics, liquids are used in cooling systems to manage heat in computers and other devices.
  • Liquid crystals are used in screens for devices like TVs and smartphones, helping to create clear images.

Art

  • Artists often use liquid materials like paint, inks, and dyes to create vibrant artwork.
  • The mixing of liquids in art can create unique textures and effects, especially in fluid painting techniques.

Origin of 'liquids'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'liquid' comes from the Latin 'liquidus', which means 'fluid' or 'clear'.
  • In different languages, like French, 'liquide' and Spanish, 'líquido' also mean something that flows easily.

The word 'liquids' originates from the Latin word 'liquere', which means 'to be fluid'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. Liquids play a crucial role in various aspects of life, from cooking to science, and continue to be an essential part of human existence.


See also: liquefiable, liquefy, liquidate, liquidation, liquidator, liquidity, liquidized, liquidizer.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,846 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.