The dielectric polarization, q. v., of a dielectric, implying the
arrangement of its molecules in chains or filaments; a term due to
Faraday. He illustrated it by placing filaments of silk in spirits of
turpentine, and introduced into the liquid two conductors. On
electrifying one and grounding (or connecting to earth) the other one,
the silk filaments arranged themselves in a chain or string connecting
the points of the conductors.