conductivity
UK: ˌkɒndʌkˈtɪvɪti | US: ˌkɑːndʌkˈtɪvɪti
n. the property of transmitting heat, electricity, or sound
n. the measure of a material's ability to conduct electric current
The word "conductivity" stems from the Latin conductus (past participle of conducere, meaning "to lead or bring together"), combined with the suffix -ivity, which forms nouns denoting a state or quality. The root conduct reflects the idea of transmission or guidance, while -ivity abstracts this into a measurable property. Over time, it specialized in scientific contexts to describe the transmission of energy (e.g., electricity or heat) through materials.
Copper has high electrical conductivity, making it ideal for wiring.
The conductivity of seawater increases with its salt content.
Researchers tested the thermal conductivity of the new alloy.
Semiconductors exhibit variable conductivity under different conditions.
The lab report compared the conductivity of metals and plastics.