acoustomagnetic

adjective

acous·​to·​mag·​net·​ic ə-¦kü-stō-mag-¦ne-tik 

: of, relating to, or being a magnetic material that produces oscillations in a fashion that resembles acoustic waves

They report that the newest and fastest-growing version of the technology, known as acoustomagnetic surveillance, temporarily affected the functioning of pacemakers in 48 of 50 subjects tested.

—P. Weiss, Science News, 7 Nov. 1998

Note: Acoustomagnetic devices are sometimes used in product packaging as security against shoplifting. The device oscillates in response to an electromagnetic signal, producing a response that can be easily detected.

Word History

Etymology

acousto- + magnetic entry 1

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!