astatic

[ ey-stat-ik ]

adjective

1. unstable; unsteady.
2. Physics. having no tendency to take a definite position or direction.

astatic

/ eɪ-; æˈstætɪk /

adjective

1. not static; unstable
2. physics
   1. having no tendency to assume any particular position or orientation
   2. (of a galvanometer) having two mutually compensating magnets arranged so that the instrument is independent of the earth's magnetic field

Derived Forms

• aˈstatiˌcism, noun
• aˈstatically, adverb

Other Words From

• a·stati·cal·ly adverb
• a·stat·i·cism [ey-, stat, -, uh, -siz-, uh, m], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of astatic¹

1820–30; < Greek ástat ( os ) not steadfast, unstable ( a- a- ⁶ + statós standing) + -ic; static

Word History and Origins

Origin of astatic¹

C19: from Greek astatos unsteady; see a- ¹, static

Example Sentences

An astatic magnetic system placed beside the disc underwent deviations.

From Project Gutenberg

The presence of the current is easily shown with the astatic detectors.

From Project Gutenberg

Hang the astatic needle so that the wire between the two parts will not quite touch the coil.

From Project Gutenberg

The most convenient way will be to use two coils, one on each side of the astatic needle.

From Project Gutenberg

By this the astatic needle is suspended and protected from air currents.

From Project Gutenberg