microfluidics

[ mahy-kroh-floo-id-iks ]

noun

1. the science of the behavior of fluids at very small volumes or flowing in very small channels typically measured in tens of micrometers, as in microminiaturized devices: used in many technologies, including those involved in DNA analysis, immunoassays, chemical synthesis, and optics.

   With recent advances in microfluidics and on-demand drug manufacturing, your pharmacist could soon be tailoring your prescription to the exact dose and formulation you need.

Word History and Origins

Origin of microfluidics¹

First recorded in 1995–2000; micro- ( def ) + fluidics ( def )