steric

adjective

ste·​ric ˈster-ik 

ˈstir-

: relating to or involving the arrangement of atoms in space : spatial

sterically

ˈster-i-k(ə-)lē 

ˈstir-

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

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary stere- + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

steric

adjective

ste·​ric ˈster-ik  ˈstir- 

: relating to or involving the arrangement of atoms in space

sterically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb