cavitation

American  

[kav-i-tey-shuhn] / ˌkæv ɪˈteɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the rapid formation and collapse of vapor pockets in a flowing liquid in regions of very low pressure, a frequent cause of structural damage to propellers, pumps, etc.

2. such a pocket formed in a flowing liquid.

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cavitation British  

/ ˌkævɪˈteɪʃən /

noun

1. the formation of vapour- or gas-filled cavities in a flowing liquid when tensile stress is superimposed on the ambient pressure

2. the formation of cavities in a structure

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cavitation Scientific  

/ kăv′ĭ-tā′shən /

1. The formation of bubblelike gaps in a liquid. Mechanical forces, such as the moving blades of a ship's propeller or sudden negative changes in pressure, can cause cavitation.

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Etymology

Origin of cavitation

First recorded in 1890–95; cavit(y) + -ation

Example Sentences

Early evidence points to cavitation -- a process where tiny vapor bubbles form and collapse rapidly, generating shockwaves within the liquid -- as a possible explanation.

From Science Daily • Mar. 30, 2026

The committee heard that the problem related to "cavitation" - when bubbles detach from a propellor and pop, causing damaging vibrations.

From BBC • Mar. 11, 2026

Those issues include problems with the four tubes such as sedimentation and cavitation — when tiny air bubbles develop while water passes through plumbing.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 16, 2024

Under certain flow conditions, cavitation can pit and tear into metal, damaging the infrastructure.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2024

The spec says quote shall be free from objectionable cavitation unquote.

From Triplanetary by Smith, E. E. (Edward Elmer)