What does nanotechnology mean?
Nanotechnology is the science and engineering of controlling matter at an extremely small scale, generally between one and 100 nanometres. At this size, materials can display properties that differ from those of larger structures, allowing scientists and engineers to design useful behaviours into surfaces, particles, devices, and medical materials. The term covers both the underlying research and the technologies and products resulting from it. Common applications include targeted medicine, improved sensors, advanced materials, more efficient electronics, and environmental systems. Because the field depends on very small structures, nanotechnology is closely associated with the wider use of nanometre-scale measurement and fabrication. The word can sound highly technical in formal writing, while nanotech is more familiar in general discussion. Despite its association with advanced science, the concept also overlaps with older fields such as chemistry, physics, materials science, and engineering, and its practical effects continue to be investigated.
nounNanotechnology is the branch of science and engineering concerned with designing, manipulating, and using materials and devices at the nanometre scale. It includes the study and application of matter with dimensions typically between 1 and 100 nanometres, as well as the technologies used to produce and control it.
- The field of scientific research and technological application concerned with matter, materials, and devices at the nanometre scale.
"Researchers are using nanotechnology to develop targeted drug-delivery systems."
"Nanotechnology may eventually help repair damaged bones using materials that encourage natural tissue growth."
"The company has invested heavily in nanotechnology for more efficient solar cells."
Usually used when referring to distinct nanoscale technologies, techniques, or applications; the singular is standard for the field as a whole.
"The exhibition features emerging nanotechnologies for medicine and energy."
Nanotechnology works at a scale where a single nanometre is one-billionth of a metre, smaller than many of the structures found in living cells.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nanotechnology come from?
The word combines the prefix nano-, meaning one-billionth and used in the metric system for very small quantities, with technology, referring to the practical application of scientific knowledge. The prefix itself comes from the Greek nanos, meaning dwarf or exceedingly small. The compound term emerged prominently in the 1980s, following developments in molecular-scale manipulation and electronic miniaturization, and was closely associated with the emerging idea of molecular engineering.
Related word forms
How nanotechnology is actually used
The term is formal and technical, though the shorter form nanotech is common in general and business contexts. It is often used broadly for nanoscale science, engineering, and their practical applications.