metastable
/ˌmiːtəˈsteɪbəl/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Metastable describes a state that is stable for a while, but not perfectly stable. It can stay unchanged unless something disturbs it.
- The system remained metastable for several hours.
- This crystal has a metastable form.
Adinary Nuance
Metastable is not the same as stable. Something stable stays steady without much change, while metastable only looks stable for a time. Writers use it in science when a system can change after a small push. It is more technical than everyday words like steady or secure.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- siêu bền tạm thời
- Spanish
- metaestable
- Chinese
- 亚稳态
- Japanese
- 準安定
- Korean
- 준안정
Etymology
Metastable comes from Greek meta-, meaning “beyond” or “after,” and stable. It was used in science in the 20th century to describe temporary stability.
Common phrases
metastable statemetastable phasemetastable system
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is metastable the same as stable?
- No. Metastable means stable for a while, but it can change if disturbed.
- Is metastable a formal word?
- Yes. It is mainly used in science, engineering, and academic writing.
- Can I use metastable in everyday English?
- Usually no. Most people use simpler words like stable or temporary.