microstate

/ˈmaɪkrəsteɪt/

Definitions

1. noun

A state or region of small size, often referring to a country or territory with a population of less than 1 million people.

“The microstate of Monaco is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful beaches.”

2. noun

A statistical ensemble of a system that is in a specific, well-defined microstate, often used in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics.

“The study of microstates in thermodynamics helps us understand the behavior of molecules in a system.”

Synonyms

  • enclave
  • nation
  • state
  • territory

Antonyms

  • colony
  • macrostate
  • superstate