thin film

noun

: a very thin layer of a substance on a supporting material
especially : a coating (as of a semiconductor) that is deposited in a layer one atom or one molecule thick

Examples of thin film in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The researchers also want to move beyond bulk pyrite crystals and produce thin films, which are more directly relevant to electronic and energy devices. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 15 Aug. 2026 Straws, utensils, thin film and bottles were put in different environments across Florida, California and Maine. — ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026 Apple has used the technology for many years on a number of products, including on various iPhone models to create a durable thin film on the casing to minimize scratching and other damage. — Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 Quickly stir until most of the flour is absorbed, then cook, stirring vigorously and breaking up pockets of dry flour as needed, until a thin film forms on bottom and sides of pan and dough comes together into a single mass, 2–3 minutes. — Jesse Szewczyk, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for thin film

Word History

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thin film was in 1944

Rhymes for thin film

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Browse Nearby Words

thine
thin film
thing
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Cite this Entry

“Thin film.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thin%20film. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on thin film

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about thin film

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