interaction

[in-ter-ak-shuhn]

noun

1. reciprocal action, effect, or influence.

2. Physics.

   1. the direct effect that one kind of particle has on another, in particular, in inducing the emission or absorption of one particle by another.

   2. the mathematical expression that specifies the nature and strength of this effect.

interaction

/ ˌɪntərˈækʃən /

noun

1. a mutual or reciprocal action or influence

2. physics the transfer of energy between elementary particles, between a particle and a field, or between fields See strong interaction electromagnetic interaction fundamental interaction gravitational interaction weak interaction electroweak interaction

Other Word Forms

• interactional adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of interaction¹

First recorded in 1825–35; inter- + action

Example Sentences

Instead of rushing in, the birds move gradually toward newcomers, taking time to observe and adjust before engaging in more daring interactions that could carry a higher risk of injury.

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The findings also offer one of the first examples of how to influence interactions between proteins on the cell surface without entering the cell itself.

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Because the interaction is gentle and reversible, the sensor highlights the affected region while leaving the cell's repair work untouched.

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Indyke’s lawyer said the mediation process was “done in complete privacy” and that some women had sent Epstein “multiple, repeated messages of warmth, love and support” years after their interactions with him.

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This interaction temporarily stabilizes the molecules, allowing reactions to proceed.

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Related Words

• communication 
• cooperation 
• synergy