dissipative

adjective

dis·​si·​pa·​tive ˈdi-sə-ˌpā-tiv How to pronounce dissipative (audio)
: relating to dissipation especially of heat

Examples of dissipative in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Static dissipative properties, to reduce the accumulation of excess static electricity. Chris Meehan, Popular Mechanics, 15 Dec. 2022 In this state, a dissipative soliton collapses but returns back to its original state afterwards). Stephen Ibaraki, Forbes, 12 July 2022 Quantum properties of the device are analyzed, yielding its Hamiltonian and dissipative properties. Paul Smith-Goodson, Forbes, 26 Apr. 2021 The trouble with dissipative adaptation is that examples like this take us rather far from the living things whose origin the concept is meant to explain. Andrew Crumey, WSJ, 2 Oct. 2020

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dissipative.' 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

1665, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dissipative was in 1665

Dictionary Entries Near dissipative

Cite this Entry

“Dissipative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dissipative. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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