\Cap`il*lar"i*ty\, n. [Cf. F. capillarit['e].]
1. The quality or condition of being capillary.
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.