adjective
- having physical properties that differ depending on the direction in which they are measured
Usage: technical; physics and materials science
Examples
- Wood is anisotropic because it is stronger along the grain than across it.
- The anisotropic properties of crystals make them useful in optical applications.
- Light travels at different speeds through anisotropic materials depending on its direction.
- Metals can exhibit anisotropic behavior after being rolled or forged.
- The anisotropic nature of the material was confirmed by measuring its strength in multiple directions.