diathermic, a.
(daɪəˈθɜːmɪk)
[ad. F. diathermique (f. Gr. διά through + θέρµ-η, θερµ-όν heat: see -ic), substituted by Melloni for his earlier term diathermane: see diathermancy.]
1. = diathermanous.
| 1840 T. Thomson Heat & Electr. (ed. 2) 132 To bodies which transmit heat well, Melloni has given the name of diathermic or transcaloric bodies. 1867 W. A. Miller Elem. Chem. (ed. 4) i. 296 A solution of alum is equally diathermic with a solution of rock salt. 1869 M. Somerville Molec. Sc. I. i. ii. 37 Bi-sulphide of carbon..of all liquids is the most diathermic. 1877 Watts Dict. Chem. V. 61 Bodies which..afford a more or less free passage to rays of heat, are called by Melloni diathermic; while those which..entirely obstruct the passage of radiant heat, are called adiathermic; the corresponding properties..being called diathermacy and adiathermacy, sometimes also diathermaneity and adiathermaneity. |
2. Of or pertaining to diathermy. Also diaˈthermically adv., by means of a diathermic current.
| 1910 F. Nagelschmidt in Proc. R. Soc. Med. (Electro-Therapeutic Sect.) IV. 2, I have designed a special diathermic apparatus. 1910 Brit. Med. Jrnl. 12 Nov. 1547/2 During diathermic operations the blood vessels and lymph channels are securely sealed. 1929 C. C. Martindale Risen Sun 100 They were sure I liked heat, and pumped an incredible amount, diathermically, into me each day. 1949 E. B. Clayton Electrotherapy & Actinotherapy xvii. 284 All diathermic treatments to the head should be given with the patient reclining on a couch. |