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
The science that brought us superconductivity, superfluidity, magnetic memory, liquid-crystal displays and more 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
The researchers believe the work demonstrates the value of bringing together ideas from quantum information science and condensed matter physics.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 8, 2026
The result resolves a long-running debate in condensed matter physics and gives scientists a strong platform for studying next-generation quantum phenomena and potential technology pathways.
From Science Daily ● Dec. 17, 2025
Professor Tamura adds that their findings open up new doors for the future of condensed matter physics.
From Science Daily ● Jan. 18, 2024
In summary, the present breakthrough propels condensed matter physics and quasicrystal research into uncharted territories, paving the way for advanced electronic devices and next-generation refrigeration technologies.
From Science Daily ● Jan. 18, 2024
In the realm of condensed matter physics, skyrmions are highly regarded for their stability and noise resistance, leading to groundbreaking advancements in high-density data storage devices.
From Science Daily ● Jan. 9, 2024
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.
