solid-state

adjective

sol·​id-state ˌsä-ləd-ˈstāt 

1

: relating to the properties, structure, or reactivity of solid material

especially : relating to the arrangement or behavior of ions, molecules, nucleons, electrons, and holes in the crystals of a substance (such as a semiconductor) or to the effect of crystal imperfections on the properties of a solid substance

solid-state physics

2

a

: utilizing the electric, magnetic, or optical properties of solid materials

solid-state circuitry

b

: using semiconductor devices rather than electron tubes

a solid-state radio

Examples of solid-state in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Timelines for the deployment of solid-state and sodium-ion batteries, seen as the next step in cutting-edge technology, have been delayed, however. —Prashant Rao, semafor.com, 19 May 2026

At the same time many suppliers of memory and solid-state storage started production expansion projects to meet prior expected demand that will start to come on line by 2027. —Thomas Coughlin, Forbes.com, 19 May 2026

Researchers say the process turns the material into a kind of solid-state water harvester that works using only sunlight, without the need for external power sources or complex machinery. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 12 May 2026

So what is a semi-solid-state battery, exactly? —Omar Kardoudi may 08, New Atlas, 8 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1951, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for solid-state

• abdicate
• abrogate
• acetate
• activate
• actuate
• aggravate
• agitate
• alginate
• alienate
• allocate
• amputate
• angulate

Kids Definition

solid-state

adjective

1

: relating to the characteristics and structure of solid material

2

: using semiconductor devices rather than electron tubes

a solid-state radio