Definition

Describing a substance that has a strong attraction to a liquid, often used in the context of colloidal systems where the dispersed phase interacts well with the dispersion medium.

Example

The lyophilic nature of the polymer allows it to dissolve easily in water.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about lyophilic substances in science?

Yeah, I think they have a strong attraction to liquids, right?

Exactly! It makes them really interesting for experiments.

I should read more about that; it sounds fascinating!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lyophilic → It is formed from "lyo-" (from Greek "lyo", meaning to dissolve) and "philic" (from Greek "philos", meaning loving). The word describes substances that have an affinity for solvents, particularly in the context of dissolving in a liquid.

Memory Tip

Think of 'loving to dissolve' — 'lyo-' means to dissolve, and 'philic' means loving, which helps you remember that lyophilic refers to substances that love to dissolve in a solvent.

Visually Confused Words