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Glite Dictionary
🔀 Two conditions 💾 Two-state device
bistate

bistate

8.4
Having two states, for example on and off
  • adjective
  • /ˈbaɪˌsteɪt/
translation icon : bistable
  • The device is designed to function in a bistate mode, either on or off.

Examples

  • A bistate switch can only be in one of two positions at any time.

  • A bistate switch can control two different circuits.

  • The experiment measured the response of the bistate system under different conditions.

  • The bistate system is essential for accurate data processing.

  • The device is designed to function in a bistate mode, either on or off.

  • A bistate switch can only be in one of two positions at any time.

  • The bistate system is essential for accurate data processing.

Synonyms

biphasic
vsbistate
  • Specialized
1 8.3

Happening in two parts, one after the other

speaks of two conditions without implying phases or stages
bistable
vsbistate
  • Specialized
8.8

Can stay in two stable states, for example in images or electronic circuits

describes two states or conditions without stressing stability

Surface Forms

bistate positive

Morphology

bistate = state (transparent) = bi + state

The productive prefix 'bi-' meaning 'two' combines directly with 'state' to mean 'having two states', which is straightforward for learners.

Etymology

Bistate comes from the parts bi- meaning 'two' and state meaning 'condition' or 'position', so it describes something that has two possible conditions. That's why a bistate mode or switch is one that can be either 'on' or 'off'.