2. (Physics) The peculiar action by which the surface of a
liquid, where it is in contact with a solid (as in a
capillary tube), is elevated or depressed; capillary
attraction.
Note: Capillarity depends upon the relative attaction of the
modecules of the liquid for each other and for those of
the solid, and is especially observable in capillary
tubes, where it determines the ascent or descent of the
liquid above or below the level of the liquid which the
tube is dipped; -- hence the name.