materials science

American  

noun

1. the study of the characteristics and uses of various materials, as glass, plastics, and metals.

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Etymology

Origin of materials science

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

Its potential applications range from enabling breakthroughs in drug development and materials science, to cracking encryption techniques widely used in computer security.

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

There is so much market value that quantum computers can enable in drug discovery, materials science, and logistics, for example.

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

For a field where cost and durability often decide whether a technology can leave the lab, a steel that builds its own second shield may be more than a materials science surprise.

From Science Daily • May 10, 2026

"This result shows that our long-term strategic planning has paid off," Professor Jöns said, adding: "The combination of excellent materials science, nanofabrication and optical quantum technology was the key to our success."

From Science Daily • Apr. 30, 2026

Beyond helping scientists understand distant planets, this research could also inform advances in materials science and engineering by revealing new types of directional behavior in matter.

From Science Daily • Apr. 21, 2026