anti-static
|an-ti-sta-tic|
/ˌæntiˈstætɪk/
against static electricity
Etymology
'anti-static' originates from the Greek prefix 'anti-' (via Latin/modern English usage) meaning 'against' and from Greek 'statikos' via New Latin/French 'static' meaning 'causing to stand' or 'stationary'.
'static' entered English from New Latin 'staticus' and French 'statique' and became 'static' in English; in modern English the prefix 'anti-' (from Greek 'anti-') combined with 'static' to form the compound adjective 'anti-static'.
Initially the elements meant 'against' and 'causing to stand'; over time the compound came to be used specifically for resisting or preventing static electricity and its effects.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a substance, coating, device, or material designed to prevent or reduce static electricity (e.g., an anti-static spray, bag, or wrist strap).
The packaging was treated with an anti-static to protect the circuit boards.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
preventing, reducing, or eliminating the buildup of static electricity.
Use an anti-static wrist strap when working on electronics.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/24 07:52