text: what is the name of the shape of a drop of water on a surface that it doesn't wet in a gravitational field? the complete question:  what is the name of the shape of a drop of water, or similar fluid, resting on a surface, that it doesn't wet, in a gravitational field?   this situation is analgous to a meniscus in a capillary tube. it is termed a sessile drop in fluid mechanics. the name i seek to recall may be from chemistry, physics, mathematics or perhaps even architecture. a web search will return a british guy trying to name it for himself about 5 years ago... i'm seeking an earlier reference, and just a generic term, such as catenary. this is an intriguing question. i do not know either, but i am looking at this with interest.