astatic
Americanadjective
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unstable; unsteady.
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Physics. having no tendency to take a definite position or direction.
adjective
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not static; unstable
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physics
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having no tendency to assume any particular position or orientation
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(of a galvanometer) having two mutually compensating magnets arranged so that the instrument is independent of the earth's magnetic field
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Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of astatic
1820–30; < Greek ástat ( os ) not steadfast, unstable ( a- a- 6 + statós standing) + -ic; see static
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It is manifest that if a second helix be placed between the poles SN with a cylinder within it, the action upon the astatic magnet may be exalted.
From Fragments of science, V. 1-2 by Tyndall, John
When it is so far sunk that its lower end rests upon the table, the upper end finds itself between the poles N´S´ of the astatic system.
From Fragments of science, V. 1-2 by Tyndall, John
Then along the brow of the pass writhed a wisp of drifting, twisting flakelets, idling hither and yon, astatic and aimless, settling in a hollow.
From Pardners by Beach, Rex Ellingwood
The presence of the current is easily shown with the astatic detectors.
From How Two Boys Made Their Own Electrical Apparatus Containing Complete Directions for Making All Kinds of Simple Apparatus for the Study of Elementary Electricity by St. John, Thomas M. (Thomas Matthew)
The most convenient way will be to use two coils, one on each side of the astatic needle.
From How Two Boys Made Their Own Electrical Apparatus Containing Complete Directions for Making All Kinds of Simple Apparatus for the Study of Elementary Electricity by St. John, Thomas M. (Thomas Matthew)
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
