Liquid
ˈlɪkwɪd
Definitions
3 meaningsA substance that is not a solid or a gas; a fluid.
ˈlɪkwɪd
A substance that flows freely and is not a solid or a gas
The chemist poured the liquid into a beaker.
💡 Simply: A liquid is something that flows like water or juice. Imagine pouring it - it takes the shape of whatever container you put it in.
👶 For kids: A liquid is something that can pour, like water or juice!
More Examples
Oil is a liquid at room temperature.
The liquid spilled on the floor.
How It's Used
"Water is a common liquid used in various chemical reactions."
"The recipe called for the addition of several liquids, including broth and cream."
In the form of a liquid; easily flowing.
ˈlɪkwɪd
Having the form of a liquid; flowing freely
The liquid metal was used to make the thermometer.
💡 Simply: If something is liquid, it means it's like water or juice, able to move and change shape.
👶 For kids: When something is liquid, it means it's like water and can pour!
More Examples
The artist used a liquid medium to create the painting.
She prefers her coffee with liquid cream.
How It's Used
"Mercury is a liquid metal at room temperature."
"She enjoyed the liquid texture of the smoothie."
To convert (assets) into cash.
ˈlɪkwɪd
Convert assets into cash.
The company liquidated its holdings to pay its debts.
💡 Simply: To liquidate something means to sell it for money, especially when a business is in trouble. Imagine selling off all the stuff in a store to get cash.
👶 For kids: If you liquidate something, it means you sell it to get money!
More Examples
They were forced to liquidate their assets to cover their losses.
The investor decided to liquidate his shares.
How It's Used
"The company had to liquidate its assets to pay its debts."
Idioms & expressions
liquid assets
Assets that can be readily converted into cash.
"The company's liquid assets included cash and marketable securities."
From Latin *liquidus* meaning 'fluid, flowing,' derived from *liquere* 'to be fluid, be liquid.'
Historically, the word 'liquid' has been used since the late 14th century to describe a substance in fluid form. Its use in finance to describe assets dates back to the 19th century.
Memory tip
Think of water, milk, juice - things that flow.
Word Origin
"fluid, flowing"