steady state theory: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Academic, Technical
Quick answer
What does “steady state theory” mean?
A cosmological theory proposing that the universe has always existed, is expanding, and remains essentially unchanged in average density as new matter is continuously created.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A cosmological theory proposing that the universe has always existed, is expanding, and remains essentially unchanged in average density as new matter is continuously created.
In a broader scientific or metaphorical context, any model or principle that describes a system in dynamic equilibrium, where inputs and outputs are balanced to maintain a constant state over time, despite internal changes or flows.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. The theory's name is identical in both dialects.
Connotations
In academic circles, it carries the same historical and scientific connotations.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both dialects, confined to cosmology, history of science, and specialized metaphorical uses.
Grammar
How to Use “steady state theory” in a Sentence
[The/This] steady state theory + [verb: posits, proposes, suggests, maintains, holds] + (that)-clausesteady state theory + [preposition: of, for] + [noun phrase: the universe, cosmology]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “steady state theory” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Scientists once sought to steady-state the cosmos with this theory.
- The model aimed to steady-state the universe's density.
American English
- Researchers attempted to steady-state the expanding universe mathematically.
adjective
British English
- The steady-state viewpoint was popular mid-century.
- He held a steady-state cosmology position.
American English
- Steady-state models offered an alternative to a cosmic beginning.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly used metaphorically to describe a market with stable long-term growth and consistent participant entry/exit.
Academic
Primary usage. Refers to the specific cosmological theory in physics, astronomy, and history of science.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Used in cosmology and related fields, often in historical discussions contrasting it with the prevailing Big Bang model.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “steady state theory”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “steady state theory”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “steady state theory”
- Using lowercase incorrectly when referring to the specific theory (prefer capitals: Steady State Theory).
- Confusing it with the 'static universe' model of Einstein, which did not involve expansion or continuous creation.
- Using it as a general adjective phrase without clear context (e.g., 'a steady state theory of economics' is awkward; prefer 'a steady-state model').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It was developed independently by Hermann Bondi and Thomas Gold in 1948, and later mathematically formulated by Fred Hoyle.
No, it is not the prevailing model. Overwhelming observational evidence, most notably the cosmic microwave background radiation and the evolution of quasars, supports the Big Bang theory, which has superseded the Steady State Theory.
It is the core postulate of the Steady State Theory. It states that the universe is homogeneous and isotropic not only in space (like the cosmological principle) but also in time, meaning its large-scale properties appear the same to any observer at any point in time.
Yes, the term 'steady state' is widely used in engineering, economics, and biology (e.g., 'steady-state economy', 'steady-state concentration' in pharmacology) to describe a condition where a system's variables are constant despite ongoing processes. However, 'steady state theory' (capitalized) specifically refers to the cosmological model.
A cosmological theory proposing that the universe has always existed, is expanding, and remains essentially unchanged in average density as new matter is continuously created.
Steady state theory is usually formal, academic, technical in register.
Steady state theory: in British English it is pronounced /ˈstedi steɪt ˈθɪəri/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈstedi steɪt ˈθiːəri/ ˈθɪri/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'steady' shower where the water level in the tub stays constant because the drain lets water out at the same rate new water comes in. The 'steady state' universe is like that tub, with new matter being created as old matter spreads out.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE UNIVERSE IS A PERPETUAL MACHINE (that requires no beginning and runs forever in the same state).
Practice
Quiz
What was a key piece of evidence that led to the decline of the Steady State Theory's acceptance?