the branch of physics that deals with the macroscopic physical properties of matter, especially solids; the study of the electromagnetic, structural, and thermodynamic properties of solids.
this study applied to crystalline solids, amorphous solids, and liquids.
The scientific study of the properties of solids, liquids, and other forms of matter in which atoms or particles adhere to each other or are otherwise highly concentrated. Solid-state physics is a branch of condensed matter physics.
See also state of matter
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"Our study represents a major step toward solving one of the longest-standing mysteries in condensed-matter physics," says first author Giordano Mattoni, Toyota Riken -- Kyoto University Research Center.
From Science Daily • Mar. 22, 2026
Just as important as Dr. Anderson’s technical achievements were his tireless — at times, feisty — advocacy for condensed-matter physics, which have come to dominate the profession, and the role of complexity in science.
From New York Times • Mar. 30, 2020
Instead, they plough the furrows of what was once known as solid-state physics — better known since the 1970s as condensed-matter physics.
From Nature • Sep. 17, 2018
Over at Forbes, Chad Orzel takes a look at the transition from atomic physics, where electrons occupy narrow states of well-defined energy to condensed-matter physics where they occupy broad energy bands.
From Scientific American • Jul. 18, 2015
She has dedicated time to charity, establishing a Chinese college free to students from low-income families and handing out tablets to high school kids in Taipei, and supported research into condensed-matter physics.
From BusinessWeek • Apr. 18, 2014
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.
