Slipperiness

Slipperiness is the physical characteristic of a surface that reduces friction, making it difficult to maintain a firm grip or to walk on without losing balance. It describes the degree to which something is smooth, wet, or coated with a substance that diminishes traction. This quality can be inherent in the material itself (like ice or soap), or it can be introduced by external factors such as water, oil, or other lubricants. The consequence of slipperiness is often an increased risk of falls, slips, and loss of control, making it a concern in environments ranging from everyday living spaces to industrial settings. It's a critical factor to consider in safety assessments, material selection, and the design of footwear and surfaces. Factors such as surface texture, the presence of moisture or lubricants, and the applied force influence the level of slipperiness experienced. In addition, slipperiness can refer to figurative instances where something is elusive, evasive or not firm in nature, such as unreliable finances.

Slipperiness meaning with examples

• The icy path presented a significant degree of slipperiness, forcing pedestrians to take slow, cautious steps. The morning after the storm, black ice patches led to several minor accidents in the neighborhood, increasing the slipperiness, making people move slowly as they walked around the streets.
• During the pottery workshop, the excessive use of slip on the clay resulted in the clay's extreme slipperiness. The young students quickly realized how tricky it would be to center their creations, leading to laughter and experimentation as they dealt with the added slipperiness.
• Oil spilled on the garage floor created an immediate hazard, increasing the slipperiness underfoot and posing a risk for anyone walking through. The mechanic promptly placed warning signs and used absorbent materials to counter the danger of the sudden slipperiness.
• The politician’s evasive answers and inconsistent policy stances showcased a metaphorical slipperiness that made it difficult for voters to understand their true agenda. Media outlets were quick to critique his strategic slipperiness.
• The company’s financial statements were confusing and deliberately vague, suggesting a degree of financial slipperiness aimed at misleading investors. Auditors struggled to uncover the truth because of the inherent slipperiness.