Brief Description
A state of matter that is not a solid or gas. Liquids often flow, like water, and take the shape of their container.
How to Talk About This Term with Young Children
A liquid is a state of matter that has a definite volume but not a fixed shape. Liquids often take the shape of their container. Encourage children to take note of liquids in their everyday world. Comment on the properties of liquids in comparison to solids and gases. Give examples of liquids flowing, taking the form of their container (milk in a gallon jug or water in a glass).