trib(o)-
Friction.
[Greek tribos, rubbing.]
Triboelectricity is electric charge generated by friction; triboluminescence is emission of light from a substance caused by rubbing, scratching, or similar frictional contact; tribology is the study of friction, wear, lubrication, and the design of bearings; a tribometer is an instrument for measuring friction in sliding.
Visit Michael Quinion’s World Wide Words site for 2000+ articles on English!
Copyright © Michael Quinion 2008–. All rights reserved. Page last updated 23 September 2008.
Your comments and suggestions on the site are very welcome.