work function

noun

: the energy that is needed for a particle to come from the interior of a medium and break through the surface
—used especially of the photoelectric and thermionic emission of electrons from metals

Word History

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of work function was in 1923

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Dictionary Entries Near work function

workful

work function

workgirl

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Work function.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/work%20function. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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