smectic

 
Pronunciation: /ˈsmɛktɪk/

adjective

  • denoting or involving a state of a liquid crystal in which the molecules are oriented in parallel and arranged in well-defined planes. Compare with nematic.

noun

  • a smectic substance.

Origin:

late 17th century: via Latin from Greek smēktikos 'cleansing' (because of the soap-like consistency)