Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hysteresis

Noun

/ˌhɪs.təˈriː.sɪs/

Definition

The lag between inputs and outputs in a system, often used in physics and engineering.

Examples

In a magnetic system, hysteresis explains why some materials retain magnetism even after the external field is removed.
Engineers must account for hysteresis effects when designing control systems.

Meaning

Hysteresis refers to the phenomenon where the state of a system depends on its history. It’s observed in various fields such as magnetism, elasticity, and fluid dynamics.