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critical state

American  
[krit-i-kuhl steyt] / ˈkrɪt ɪ kəl ˈsteɪt /

noun

Physics.
  1. the state of a pure element or compound when it is at a critical point.

    critical states of superconductor multilayers.


critical state British  

noun

  1. Also called: critical point.  the state of a substance in which two of its phases have the same temperature, pressure, and volume

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

critical state Scientific  
  1. The state of matter of a substance at its critical point.


Etymology

Origin of critical state

First recorded in 1880–85

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.

The report said the finances of health and social care services were in a critical state and highlighted struggles recruiting and retaining staff.

From BBC

After two years of war, its hospitals have been left in a critical state.

From BBC

Watching performers like Stan and Moore talk about the critical state of cinema and its changing guard was a major get for anyone who loves entertainment already.

From Salon

In Arizona, another critical state, the stakes have never felt higher for Mohyeddin Abdulaziz, a Palestinian American lawyer and the co-founder of the Arizona Palestine Solidarity Alliance.

From Slate

On Sunday, Harris was in Philadelphia, the largest city in the critical state of Pennsylvania.

From Los Angeles Times