steady state

noun

: a state or condition of a system or process (such as one of the energy states of an atom) that does not change in time
broadly : a condition that changes only negligibly over a specified time
steady-state adjective

Examples of steady state in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web All complex multicellular organisms have evolved numerous ways to maintain homeostasis—to preserve a steady state of physical and chemical conditions essential to their continued existence. Ferris Jabr, The Atlantic, 25 June 2024 The steady state Washington should pursue is rightly about both: a set of conditions necessary for preventing a dangerous escalatory spiral, even as competition continues. Kurt M. Campbell, Foreign Affairs, 1 Aug. 2019 That didn’t stop this author from telling the comedy icon’s complex story May 29, 2024 Happiness is not a steady state despite its pursuit by Americans. Lorraine Berry, Los Angeles Times, 3 June 2024 When a battery is new, there can be some noticeable degradation as the battery settles into its steady state. Ryan Erik King / Jalopnik, Quartz, 28 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for steady state 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'steady state.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of steady state was in 1885

Dictionary Entries Near steady state

Cite this Entry

“Steady state.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/steady%20state. Accessed 13 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

steady state

noun
: a state or condition of a system or process that does not change or changes only slightly over time
on the average a living cell maintains a steady state

Medical Definition

steady state

noun
1
: a state or condition of a system or process (as one of the energy states of an atom) that does not change in time
2
: a state of physiological equilibrium especially in connection with a specified metabolic relation or activity

More from Merriam-Webster on steady state

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