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

Critics have raised eyebrows about the solid-state battery breakthrough, because it's proven difficult for a number of reasons – finding the right electrolyte and other materials, managing temperature sensitivity, and achieving cost-effective manufacturing at scale. —New Atlas, 1 Apr. 2026

Estonian manufacturer Verge Motorcycles has announced the start of production of what is claimed to be the world’s first motorcycle powered by an all-solid-state battery. —Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 1 Apr. 2026

Atom Power developed the world’s first commercial solid-state circuit breaker, which is drawing attention from hyperscale data centers to meet performance demands and safety needs. —Charlotte Observer, 11 Mar. 2026

Designers of solid-state batteries are aiming for RTE’s of 98 percent or higher, due in part to their inherently lower internal resistance. —IEEE Spectrum, 11 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1951, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for solid-state

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

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