viscous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
viscous Word Meanings
- having a thick, sticky consistency
- not easily flowing
- slow to change or adapt
viscous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
viscous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈvɪs.kəs/
US
/ˈvɪs.kəs/
viscous Word Etymology
Root decomposition: visco- (from Latin 'viscum' meaning 'mistletoe, adhesive') + -ous (forming a characteristic). Historical origin: Latin 'viscosus' → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine stirring thick honey that clings to the spoon, illustrating its sticky and thick nature.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Viscous describes liquids that resist flowing and feel thick or sticky to the touch. It also describes slow-to-change or slow-to-move processes. In science, viscosity measures how a liquid resists deformation under force. Typical examples are honey, molasses, and syrup, all described as viscous. In everyday speech you might say a sauce or paint is viscous if it clings to a spoon or brush and drips slowly. The term can also be used metaphorically about bureaucratic or organizational processes that move very slowly. The etymology traces visco- from viscosity, plus -ous to form a characteristic adjective. Memory image: imagine stirring thick honey that clings to the spoon, illustrating its sticky, thick nature.
Usage Reminders
- Use viscous for thick liquids or pastes that resist flow.
- Not all sticky things are viscous; the emphasis is on flow resistance.
- Describe liquids/pastes like sauce, paint, oil, or syrup.
- Avoid using viscous for gases or very fast-flowing liquids.
- Can be used metaphorically for slow-changing processes.
- Pronounce VIS-kəs; the c makes a k sound.
Common Misconceptions
- Viscous is just another word for sticky; it also focuses on resistance to flow.
- Gases can be viscous in everyday speech.
- All thick liquids are always viscous.
- Viscous cannot be used metaphorically for slow processes.
- The pronunciation is always 'viz-koos' in every accent.
Thinking Differences
English tends to pair viscous with concrete liquids (honey, syrup) and to use metaphorical senses for slow processes; learners often assume sticky equals viscous and misplace the word with textures rather than flow resistance.
Learning Tips
- Link viscous to common liquids (honey, syrup) to remember resistance to flow.
- Compare with 'thick' and 'sticky' to see subtle differences.
- Practice with both literal and metaphorical uses.
- Pronounce VIS-kəs; emphasize the first syllable.
- Remember the root visco- and the suffix -ous.
- Create a mental image of something thick clinging to a spoon.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'viscous'?
A.Very light and airy
B.Thick and sticky in consistency
C.Protein-rich food
D.A type of musical genre
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'viscous' correctly.
A.The honey had a viscous texture, making it slow to pour.
B.The cake was viscous and crumbled easily.
C.His thoughts were viscous and clear.
D.The sound was viscous and pleasant.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'viscous'?
A.Sticky
B.Thin
C.Slippery
D.Liquid
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'viscous'?
A.Fluid
B.Dense
C.Sticky
D.Thick
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where the word 'viscous' could be used correctly?
A.The oil poured out of the bottle easily.
B.The wind was so strong it pushed the leaves aside.
C.She noticed the syrup was quite thick and hard to spread.
D.The water from the fountain flowed smoothly.
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