lattice

[lat-is] /ˈlæt ɪs/

noun

a structure of crossed wooden or metal strips usually arranged to form a diagonal pattern of open spaces between the strips.

a window, gate, or the like consisting of such a structure.

Physics. the structure of fissionable and nonfissionable materials geometrically arranged within a nuclear reactor.

Also called Bravais lattice, crystal lattice, space lattice. Crystallography. an arrangement in space of isolated points (lattice points) in a regular pattern, showing the positions of atoms, molecules, or ions in the structure of a crystal.

Mathematics. a partially ordered set in which every subset containing exactly two elements has a greatest lower bound or intersection and a least upper bound or union.

verb (used with object), latticed, latticing.

to furnish with a lattice or latticework.

to form into or arrange like latticework.

Origin

1350-1400; Middle English latis < Middle French lattis, derivative of latte lath < Germanic; see lath

Related forms

latticelike, adjective

Synonyms

1. trellis, grille, screen, grid.

Examples from the web for lattice

For example, a square lattice has fourfold symmetry.
In fact, the whole thing is a lattice of collateral.
The tomb contained a wooden coffin decorated with a copper lattice and a gilded mask, sitting on a raised platform.
Cut the lattice supports to fit snugly between the posts behind the bench.
The body makes it by growing tiny mineral crystals in a highly regular crystal lattice.
Horton was an expert in solid-state physics, with a special interest in lattice dynamics and self-consistent phonons.
Perhaps a lattice of bilateral relationships from within a powerful trading and defence bloc is the best of both worlds.
But at second glance, an observer can see red and white lattice towers rising here and there over the hillside.
Still its a good idea to install screening behind the lattice work as an extra deterrent.
Bright eyes peered at me through a lattice of ferns.

British Dictionary definitions for lattice

lattice

/ˈlætɪs/

noun

Also called latticework. an open framework of strips of wood, metal, etc, arranged to form an ornamental pattern

a gate, screen, etc, formed of such a framework
(as modifier): a lattice window

something, such as a decorative or heraldic device, resembling such a framework

an array of objects or points in a periodic pattern in two or three dimensions, esp an array of atoms, ions, etc, in a crystal or an array of points indicating their positions in space See also Bravais lattice

verb

to make, adorn, or supply with a lattice or lattices

Derived Forms

latticed, adjective

Word Origin

C14: from Old French lattis, from lattelath

Word Origin and History for lattice

c.1300, from Old French latiz "lattice," from late "lath, board, plank, batten" (Modern French latte), from Frankish or some other Germanic source, cf. Old High German latta "lath;" see lath).

lattice in Science

lattice

(lāt'ĭs)
A set of points that, when joined together, form the geometric shape of a mineral crystal. The lattice of the mineral halite, for example, is in the shape of a cube. See more at crystal.

lattice in Technology

theory
A partially ordered set in which all finite subsets have a least upper bound and greatest lower bound.
This definition has been standard at least since the 1930s and probably since Dedekind worked on lattice theory in the 19th century; though he may not have used that name.
See also complete lattice, domain theory.
(1999-12-09)

lattice in the Bible

(1.) Heb. 'eshnabh, a latticed opening through which the cool breeze passes (Judg. 5:28). The flat roofs of the houses were sometimes enclosed with a parapet of lattice-work on wooden frames, to screen the women of the house from the gaze of the neighbourhood. (2.) Heb. harakim, the network or lattice of a window (Cant. 2:9). (3.) Heb. sebakhah, the latticed balustrade before a window or balcony (2 Kings 1:2). The lattice window is frequently used in Eastern countries.