1. Materials or structures that exhibit a negative Poisson's ratio, expanding laterally when stretched and contracting laterally when compressed, contrary to ordinary materials.
Usage: technical; materials science; plural form; singular is auxetic

Examples

• Auxetics are used in aerospace engineering to create lighter, more impact-resistant components.
• Researchers have developed auxetics from foam and polymers that behave counterintuitively under stress.
• The unique properties of auxetics make them valuable for protective equipment and medical devices.
• Engineers are exploring auxetics as a solution for designing more efficient shock-absorbing materials.