mesomorphism

[ˌmɛzəˈmɔrfɪzəm]
nounpl: mesomorphisms
mesomorfismo
1. A state of matter intermediate between solid and liquid; a mesomorphic phase characterized by partial order
Liquid crystals exhibit mesomorphism, displaying properties between those of liquids and solids.
Os cristais líquidos exibem mesomorfismo, apresentando propriedades intermediárias entre os líquidos e os sólidos.
2. In chemistry, the phenomenon where a substance exists in an intermediate state of molecular organization
The mesomorphism of the polymer allowed it to flow at lower temperatures than expected.
O mesomorfismo do polímero permitiu que ele fluísse em temperaturas mais baixas do que o esperado.
3. A constitutional body type characterized by a predominance of muscle and bone; somatotype with balanced development
Athletes with mesomorphism tend to have natural advantages in strength and muscle development.
Atletas com mesomorfismo tendem a ter vantagens naturais no desenvolvimento de força e musculatura.
This is a highly technical term primarily used in scientific fields such as chemistry, physics, and materials science. It is rarely used in everyday conversation in either Brazil or the USA. The term gained prominence in the late 20th century with research into liquid crystals and their applications in display technology. In somatotype contexts (body classification), mesomorphism refers to Sheldon's constitutional psychology, though this classification system is less commonly used in modern kinesiology and sports science.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
liquid crystallinityintermediate phasemesomorphic state
Antonyms / Antônimos
crystalline ordercomplete fluidityectomorphismendomorphism

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
mesomorfismo
Standard scientific term used in chemistry and materials science
Portugal
mesomorfismo
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; technical term in physics and chemistry
Academia (USA)
mesomorphism
Predominantly used in scientific and academic contexts, not in general speech

Related Words

mesomorphicliquid crystalpolymersomatotypephase transitionmolecular order

Related Idioms & Phrases

in a mesomorphic state
exhibit mesomorphism
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