lattice

[lat-is]

noun

1. a structure of crossed wooden or metal strips usually arranged to form a diagonal pattern of open spaces between the strips.

   Synonyms: grid, screen, grille, trellis

2. a window, gate, or the like consisting of such a structure.

3. Physics.,  the structure of fissionable and nonfissionable materials geometrically arranged within a nuclear reactor.

4. Also called Bravais lattice, crystal lattice, space lattice. Crystallography.,  an arrangement in space of isolated points lattice points in a regular pattern, showing the positions of atoms, molecules, or ions in the structure of a crystal.

5. Mathematics.,  a partially ordered set in which every subset containing exactly two elements has a greatest lower bound or intersection and a least upper bound or union.

verb (used with object)

latticed, latticing 

1. to furnish with a lattice or latticework.

2. to form into or arrange like latticework.

lattice

/ ˈlætɪs /

noun

1. Also called: latticework. an open framework of strips of wood, metal, etc, arranged to form an ornamental pattern

2. 1. a gate, screen, etc, formed of such a framework

   2. ( as modifier )

      a lattice window

3. something, such as a decorative or heraldic device, resembling such a framework

4. an array of objects or points in a periodic pattern in two or three dimensions, esp an array of atoms, ions, etc, in a crystal or an array of points indicating their positions in space See also Bravais lattice

verb

1. to make, adorn, or supply with a lattice or lattices

Other Word Forms

• latticelike adjective
• latticed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of lattice¹

1350–1400; Middle English latis < Middle French lattis, derivative of latte lath < Germanic; lath

Word History and Origins

Origin of lattice¹

C14: from Old French lattis, from latte _lath

Example Sentences

In this state, electrons arrange themselves in a solid lattice yet can also shift into a more fluid form.

Read more on Science Daily

The crystal's geometry is a flattened rectangular lattice in which the two base edges are identical in length.

Read more on Science Daily

In most superconductors, electrons pair up due to vibrations in the surrounding atomic lattice, which gently push them together.

Read more on Science Daily

In Australia, First Graphene says it has found a way to slow the spread of fire in plastics by adding graphene – tiny flakes of carbon atoms arranged in honeycomb lattices.

Read more on BBC

The structure of MXenes can be adjusted by modifying how nitrogen atoms interact within the lattice.

Read more on Science Daily

Related Words

• filigree