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Glite Dictionary
tribologist

tribologist

1 9.9
A scientist who studies how surfaces rub together, wear down, and need oil or grease
  • noun
  • /traɪˈbɒlədʒɪst/
  • Specialized
: tribólogo
  • The first recorded tribologist pouring a liquid lubricant in front of the sledge used to transport the statue of Ti (about 2400 BC). (From refs. 2 and 3.)

Examples

  • A tribologist studies the effects of lubrication on the performance of machinery.

  • Sun has been a tribologist for 28 years.

    Academic text (1998)

  • He was president of the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) in 1995-96 and has served on the STLE board since 1983.

    Academic text (2001)

  • He has served on the Committee of Examiners for the GRE Engineering Exam and is active in the Society of Tribologists & Lubrication Engineers (STLE).

    Academic text (1996)

  • A tribologist analyzes how different materials interact under various levels of friction.

  • As a tribologist, she conducts experiments to improve the durability of engine components.

Surface Forms

tribologist singular
tribologists plural

Morphology

tribologist = tribology (transparent) = tribology + ist

Agentive formation from the noun 'tribology' using the productive suffix '-ist', so knowing 'tribology' lets learners infer 'tribologist'.

Etymology

Tribologist comes from the root tribo meaning 'to rub' and the ending -logy meaning 'study'. So a tribologist is a scientist who studies rubbing, friction, wear and the best lubrication to keep machines working.