anisotropy

American  

[an-ahy-so-truh-pee] / ˌæn aɪˈsɒ trə pi /

Rarely anisotropism

noun

1. Physics. the fact of having unequal physical properties along different axes.

   Even crystals with a simple cubic lattice structure, such as salt, display optical anisotropy; that is, the light propagates differently in different directions.

2. Botany. the fact of having different rates of growth in different directions.

   Anisotropy is a nearly ubiquitous feature of plant growth; it is necessary, if a growing plant organ is to produce any other form than a sphere.

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Etymology

Origin of anisotropy

First recorded in 1875–80; an- ¹ ( def. ) + isotrop(ic) ( def. ) + -y ³ ( def. )

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

anisotropy

Because of its strong structural anisotropy, MoOCl2 functions as a natural hyperbolic medium.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 1, 2026

Rather, it arises from a balance between several competing forces, including exchange interactions, magnetic anisotropy and Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interactions.

From Science Daily ● Mar. 2, 2026

Underpinning the functional utility of liquid crystalline elastomers is their blend of anisotropy and viscoelasticity, Roach said.

From Science Daily ● Dec. 2, 2024

However, to transition to higher areal densities, a high anisotropy magnetic recording medium consisting of FePt grains combined with heat-assisted laser writing is required.

From Science Daily ● Apr. 8, 2024

And finally, perhaps, the most significant example for the effect of induced anisotropy lies in that differential impression made by stimulus on the sensory surfaces, which remains latent, and capable of revival, as the memory-image.

From Sir Jagadis Chunder Bose His Life and Speeches by Sir Jagadis Chandra Bose