steric

adjective

ste·​ric ˈster-ik How to pronounce steric (audio)
ˈstir-
: relating to or involving the arrangement of atoms in space : spatial
sterically adverb

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web These mutations use a combination of steric hindrance, electrostatic contact remodeling, abrogating electrostatic interactions, and so on. William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 28 Jan. 2022 Evidence suggests that accumulation of ice on the Antarctic continent has been offsetting the steric effect for at least several centuries. Fred Singer, WSJ, 15 May 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'steric.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary stere- + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of steric was in 1898

Dictionary Entries Near steric

Cite this Entry

“Steric.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/steric. Accessed 25 Mar. 2023.

Medical Definition

steric

adjective
ste·​ric ˈster-ik How to pronounce steric (audio) ˈstir- How to pronounce steric (audio)
: relating to or involving the arrangement of atoms in space
sterically adverb
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