friction
5 synonyms and 0 antonyms for friction, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The resistance created when one surface rubs against another.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use friction
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin frictio, "a rubbing," from fricare, "to rub."
Full origin of friction →Frequently asked questions
What does “friction” mean?
The word “friction” means the resistance created when one surface rubs against another. In plain terms, rubbing resistance between surfaces, or, figuratively, tension between people.
How do you pronounce “friction”?
“Friction” is pronounced FRIHK-shuhn (/ˈfɹɪkʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “friction” in a sentence?
Here is “friction” used in a sentence: “Oil reduces friction between the moving parts of the engine.”
What part of speech is “friction”?
“Friction” is a noun.
Where does the word “friction” come from?
The word “friction” comes from Latin. From Latin frictio, "a rubbing," from fricare, "to rub.".
Is “friction” a common word?
“Friction” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “friction” have?
“Friction” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the resistance created when one surface rubs against another.
What is the difference between friction and tension?
Friction, in its physical sense, is the resistance created when one surface rubs against another. Both words can describe disagreement between people, but friction usually implies ongoing rubbing conflict from differing views, while tension more often describes a strained, anxious atmosphere that may or may not involve open disagreement.
Can friction be a good thing?
In physics, friction is often necessary and useful, for example allowing tires to grip a road or shoes to grip the ground. In relationships or teams, friction usually refers to disagreement or tension, which is generally seen as something to manage or reduce.
What causes friction between people?
Friction between people arises from disagreement or tension caused by differing views, goals, or working styles, similar to how physical friction arises from two surfaces rubbing against each other.