work function

American  

noun

1. Physics. the least energy necessary to free an electron from a metal surface.

2. Thermodynamics. Helmholtz function.

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work function British  

noun

1.  φ.   Φ.  physics the minimum energy required to transfer an electron from a point within a solid to a point just outside its surface

2. thermodynamics another name (not now used because of confusion with sense 1) for Helmholtz function

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Example Sentences

Hearing this read aloud at a work function isn't grounds for a conversation with HR but, rather, company lore that must be taken seriously.

From Salon • Feb. 15, 2025

The souvenirs, like much of the multidisciplinary artist’s work, function as an encapsulation of her memory.

From New York Times • Jun. 23, 2023

The 32-year-old said the medication allows her to work, function and maintain relationships but she is now having to make it "stretch a little bit further" as she deals with the rising cost of living.

From BBC • May 23, 2022

She and Emhoff dated for six months before she invited him to a work function, a speech she gave about truancy.

From Washington Post • Aug. 18, 2020

Perhaps there is no more effective way of making the school work function in the home than by the educative process called the project.

From School and Home Cooking by Greer, Carlotta Cherryholmes