Hys`te*re"sis (?), n. [NL., fr. Gr. to be behind, to lag.] Physics
A lagging or retardation of the effect, when the forces acting upon a body are changed, as if from velocity or internal friction; a temporary resistance to change from a condition previously induced, observed in magnetism, thermoelectricity, etc., on reversal of polarity.
© Webster 1913.