substate

noun

sub·​state ˈsəb-ˌstāt How to pronounce substate (audio)
variants or sub-state
plural substates or sub-states
: a state (such as a physical or atomic state) that is a variant or division of another more broadly defined state
… each quantum state of a given spin angular momentum is split into a number of substatesArthur L. Robinson

Examples of substate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Domestic stability is inextricably linked to regional stability: throughout the region, weak and failed states have fueled destructive substate actors, radical transnational movements, and interstate conflict. Karen Kramer, Foreign Affairs, 2 Feb. 2021 After decades of focusing on minor powers and substate actors, the United States must prepare for a new era of great-power competition with China and, to a lesser extent, with Russia. Andrew F. Krepinevich, Foreign Affairs, 10 Dec. 2020

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of substate was in 1896

Dictionary Entries Near substate

Cite this Entry

“Substate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/substate. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

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