Is viscosity a formal word?

Yes. It is common in science, engineering, and academic writing.

What is the difference between viscosity and thickness?

Thickness is everyday language. Viscosity is the scientific term for how easily a liquid flows.

Can I use viscosity for gases?

Yes, but it is more often used for liquids in everyday learning and basic science.

How do I use viscosity in a sentence?

You can say, "The viscosity of syrup is higher than water."

← Dictionary

viscosity

/vɪˈskɒs.ɪ.ti/

IELTSAcademic

noun

Viscosity is how thick and sticky a liquid is. A liquid with high viscosity flows slowly.

Honey has a high viscosity.
Water has low viscosity.
Engine oil's viscosity changes with temperature.

Adinary Nuance

Viscosity is more exact than "thickness" or "stickiness" when you talk about liquids in science. Writers use it for measured flow, not just a general feel. In everyday speech, people may say "thick," but scientists often say "high viscosity."

In other languages

Vietnamese: độ nhớt
Spanish: viscosidad
Chinese: 黏度
Japanese: 粘度
Korean: 점도

Etymology

Viscosity comes from Latin viscosus, meaning "sticky." It entered English in the 19th century through science.

Common phrases

high viscositylow viscositythe viscosity of a liquidmeasure viscosity

Synonyms

thickness stickiness glueiness

Related words

fluid flow density resistance honey

Frequently asked questions

Is viscosity a formal word?: Yes. It is common in science, engineering, and academic writing.
What is the difference between viscosity and thickness?: Thickness is everyday language. Viscosity is the scientific term for how easily a liquid flows.
Can I use viscosity for gases?: Yes, but it is more often used for liquids in everyday learning and basic science.
How do I use viscosity in a sentence?: You can say, "The viscosity of syrup is higher than water."