Definition

The quality of having different properties or behaviors in different directions.

Example

The anisotropy of the material affects how it responds to stress.

Conversation

I was reading about anisotropy in materials today.

Oh really? What does it mean exactly?

It refers to how some properties can change depending on the direction you look at them.

That’s interesting! I didn’t know that materials could behave differently like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Anisotropy → It is formed from "an-" (meaning not) and "isotropia" (from Greek "isos" meaning equal and "tropos" meaning direction). The term describes a condition where properties differ based on direction, hence not equal in all directions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('an-') being equal in 'direction' ('isotropia') — that's why anisotropy means properties that vary with direction.

Visually Confused Words