NYT Dictionary

FRICTION

/ˈfɹɪkʃən/
NounFRIC-tionfric-tion · 2 syllablesGrade 5

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2024

Meaning

The rubbing of one object or surface against another.

Etymology

Origin: Latin

From Middle French friction and directly from Latin frictionem, nom. frictio (“a rubbing, rubbing down”).

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

clashrubbingdetritionantagonismantipathybacklashbelligerencecaressingcollisioncompetition

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 1 recorded puzzle, including a pangram:

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