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Definitions

friction

[frik-shuhn] / ˈfrɪk ʃən /
NOUN
rubbing
Synonyms
STRONGEST
agitation erosion irritation resistance
STRONG
abrasion attrition chafing filing grating grinding massage rasping scraping soreness traction
WEAK
fretting trituration wearing away
Antonyms
WEAK
agreement harmony peace
NOUN
disagreement
Synonyms
STRONGEST
animosity antagonism bad blood bickering conflict discontent discord disharmony dispute dissension hassle hatred hostility quarrel resentment resistance rivalry strife trouble wrangling
STRONG
counteraction faction flak impedance incompatibility interference opposition row ruckus rumpus set-to
WEAK
bad feeling bone to pick factionalism sour note
Antonyms
STRONGEST
accord agreement concord happiness harmony liking love peace pleasure

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Friction between principals and teachers over budgets and educational strategies increased.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 18, 2026

Friction with the U.S. is amplifying calls for more EU reforms.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 28, 2025

Friction ensued between Rees and private-credit honchos Ostrover and Lipschultz.

From Barron's • Oct. 24, 2025

Friction had been growing between the president and the foreign ministry over a range of issues in recent months, observers say.

From BBC • Oct. 30, 2024

Friction began to grow between the two programs.

From "The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics" by Daniel James Brown

Vocabulary lists containing friction

Word Generation Science - Energy

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Force and Motion (Mechanics) - Middle School

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Force and Motion (Mechanics) - Introductory

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!