hysteresis

Meaning

Noun

• A property of a system such that an output value is not a strict function of the corresponding input, but also incorporates some lag, delay, or history dependence, and in particular when the response for a decrease in the input variable is different from the response for an increase. For example, a thermostat with a nominal setpoint of 75° might switch the controlled heat source on when the temperature drops below 74°, and off when it rises above 76°.
• Magnetic friction in dynamos, by which every reversal of magnetism in the iron causes dissipation of energy.

Origin

• Coined by Sir James Alfred Ewing from Ancient Greek ὑστέρησις, from ὑστερέω, from ὕστερος.