Solid

Definition

Solid refers to a state of matter characterized by a fixed shape and volume, and it can also describe something strong, reliable, or substantial.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɑː.lɪd/
• Respelling: SAH-lid

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɒ.lɪd/
• Respelling: SOL-id

Etymology

The word "solid" originates from the Latin "solidus," meaning "whole, dense, or firm." It passed into Old French as "solide" before entering Middle English in the late 14th century, retaining its meaning of strength and stability.

Derivatives

• Solidity (noun)
• Solidify (verb)
• Solidly (adverb)
• Solidification (noun)
• Solid-state (adjective)

Synonyms

• Firm
• Strong
• Stable

Antonyms

• Liquid
• Weak
• Fragile

Usage

The term "solid" is commonly used in physics to describe a state of matter and in everyday language to refer to reliability or strength. For example, "The ice is solid enough to walk on," or "She gave a solid performance."

Related Terms

• Mass: A measure of the amount of matter in an object.
• Density: The degree of compactness of a substance.
• Rigid: Stiff and unyielding.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Having a firm and stable form: Describes something that is not liquid or gaseous and maintains its shape.
  • Example: "The sculpture was carved from a single block of solid marble."
• Strong or reliable: Refers to something or someone dependable or sturdy.
  • Example: "The bridge’s construction is solid."
• Continuous or unbroken: Describes something without gaps or interruptions.
  • Example: "The wall was made of solid stone."

Noun

• A state of matter: Refers to a form of matter characterized by a fixed shape and volume.
  • Example: "Ice is the solid state of water."
• A geometric shape: Refers to three-dimensional figures in mathematics.
  • Example: "The sphere is a common solid in geometry."