astatic

[ey-stat-ik] /eɪˈstæt ɪk/
adjective
1.
unstable; unsteady.
2.
Physics. having no tendency to take a definite position or direction.
Origin
1820-30; < Greek ástat(os) not steadfast, unstable (a- a-6 + statós standing) + -ic; see static
Related forms
astatically, adverb
astaticism
[ey-stat-uh-siz-uh m] /eɪˈstæt əˌsɪz əm/ (Show IPA), noun
Examples from the web for astatic
  • astatic electric potential is formed by the coasting beam, when there is no transverse motion.
British Dictionary definitions for astatic

astatic

/æˈstætɪk; eɪ-/
adjective
1.
not static; unstable
2.
(physics)
  1. having no tendency to assume any particular position or orientation
  2. (of a galvanometer) having two mutually compensating magnets arranged so that the instrument is independent of the earth's magnetic field
Derived Forms
astatically, adverb
astaticism, noun
Word Origin
C19: from Greek astatos unsteady; see a-1, static
Word Origin and History for astatic
adj.

1827, from Greek astatos "unstable, not steadfast," from a-, privative prefix (see a- (3)), + statos "placed, standing," from PIE root *sta- (see stet).

astatic in Medicine

astatic a·stat·ic (ə-stāt'ĭk)
adj.

  1. Relating to astasia.

  2. Unsteady; unstable.