magnetostriction

noun mag·ne·to·stric·tion \-ˈstrik-shən\

Definition of MAGNETOSTRICTION

: the change in the dimensions of a ferromagnetic body caused by a change in its state of magnetization

— mag·ne·to·stric·tive \-ˈstrik-tiv\ adjective

— mag·ne·to·stric·tive·ly adverb

International Scientific Vocabulary magnet- + -striction (as in constriction)

First Known Use: 1896

Next Word in the Dictionary: magnetostriction oscillatorPrevious Word in the Dictionary: magnetostaticsAll Words Near: magnetostriction

What made you want to look up magnetostriction? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears