ScienceAugust 20, 2026
subdominant
sub-DOM-ih-nent
Definition
Referring to a secondary or lesser electronic wave pattern that exists alongside and at a right angle to a more primary, dominant charge density wave in a quantum material.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin prefix 'sub-' (under, below) and the adjective 'dominant' (ruling or prevailing). It describes something that is secondary in power or influence compared to a primary factor.
In the news
In this study, the subdominant phase is the second charge density wave that emerges at lower temperatures; researchers observed it forming in isolated, expanding pockets rather than spreading uniformly.
MIT physicists discover electrons rebuilding like ice inside a quantum material
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