friction
noun
fric·tion
ˈfrik-shən 
1
a
: the rubbing of one body against another
the friction of sandpaper on wood
b
: the force that resists relative motion between two bodies in contact
oil in a car engine reduces friction
2
: the clashing between two persons or parties of opposed views : disagreement
friction between neighbors
friction between state and federal authorities
3
: sound produced by the movement of air through a narrow constriction in the mouth or glottis
frictionlessly
adverb
Examples of friction in a Sentence
the friction of sandpaper on wood
Oil in a car engine reduces friction.
It was difficult to reach an agreement because of the friction between the two sides.
Recent Examples on the Web
Preventing this form of friction is first and foremost a design challenge.
—
Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025
Trade Wars The tariffs imposed by Trump on Europe to try to redress trade imbalances have been another source of friction.
—Matthew Tostevin, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 May 2025
The organizations have also warned of the risk of friction between Israeli troops and people seeking supplies.
—Wafaa Shurafa, Los Angeles Times, 28 May 2025
Eldest and youngest formed a bond that would survive decades of friction over principles and tactics.
—Dan Morrison, USA Today, 28 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for friction
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Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025
Trade Wars The tariffs imposed by Trump on Europe to try to redress trade imbalances have been another source of friction.
—Matthew Tostevin, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 May 2025
The organizations have also warned of the risk of friction between Israeli troops and people seeking supplies.
—Wafaa Shurafa, Los Angeles Times, 28 May 2025
Eldest and youngest formed a bond that would survive decades of friction over principles and tactics.
—Dan Morrison, USA Today, 28 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for friction
Cite this Entry
“Friction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/friction. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
friction
noun
fric·tion
ˈfrik-shən
1
a
: the rubbing of one thing against another
b
: the force that resists motion between bodies in contact
the friction of a box sliding along the floor
lubrication reduces friction
2
: disagreement between persons or groups
3
: sound produced by the movement of air through a narrow constriction in the mouth or glottis
Etymology
Middle English friction "a rubbing of two things together, friction," from early French friction or Latin friction-, frictio (both same meaning), derived from Latin fricare "to rub" — related to fray entry 2
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