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oleophobic

oleophobic

9.9
A surface that does not let oil stick to it
  • adjective
  • /ˌoʊliəˈfoʊbɪk/
  • Specialized
translation icon : oleofóbico
  • The oleophobic treatment on the sunglasses helps keep them clear and smudge-free.

The screens on modern smartphones are oleophobic coded.

Examples

  • The screens on modern smartphones are oleophobic coded.

  • The Gore Membrane Vents Series HAP: Higher Airflow and Protection provides higher airflow as well as enhanced oleophobic qualities.

    Academic text (2005)
  • The screen of my new phone has an oleophobic coating that repels fingerprints.

  • This oleophobic material is ideal for kitchen surfaces, as it resists oil stains.

Antonyms

oleophilic
  • Specialized
9.9

Attracting and holding oil rather than water

How Oil-Repellent

oleophobic
  • Specialized
9.9
greaseproof
  • UK
3.9
repellent
2 4.7

Surface Forms

oleophobic positive

Morphology

oleophobic = phobic (semi-transparent) = oleo + phob + ic

The word is built transparently from a technical oil-related prefix and the adjective 'phobic', but the specialized scientific sense may not be fully obvious to all learners.

Etymology

Oleophobic combines oleo- meaning 'oil' and -phobic meaning 'fear' or 'avoiding'. So an oleophobic surface 'avoids' oil, which is why oil and fingerprints do not stick to it.