Amorphism

/əˈmɔːrfɪzəm/ noun

Definition

The condition or property of being amorphous; the state of lacking definite form or crystalline structure.

Etymology

From Greek a- (without) + morphe (form) + -ism. This scientific term emerged in the 19th century to describe materials that don't crystallize.

Kelly Says

Obsidian, amber, and the coating on your phone screen are all amorphic—they share 'amorphism,' which means the atoms inside refused to arrange themselves neatly, creating something stronger and stranger than they would be if they'd crystallized properly.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.