STATIONARY

a. n.

4 definitions — Webster’s Dictionary (1828)


1.
a.

Not moving; not appearing to move; stable; fixed. Charles Wesley, who is a more stationary man, does not believe the story. Southey.

2.
a.

Not improving or getting worse; not growing wiser, greater, better, more excellent, or the contrary.

3.
a.

Appearing to be at rest, because moving in the line of vision; not progressive or retrograde, as a planet. Stationary air (Physiol.), the air which under ordinary circumstances does not leave the lungs in respiration. -- Stationary engine. (a) A steam engine thet is permanently placed, in distinction from a portable engine, locomotive, marine engine, etc. Specifically: (b) A factory engine, in distinction from a blowing, pumping, or other kind of engine which is also permanently placed.

4.
n.

One who, or that which, is stationary, as a planet when apparently it has neither progressive nor retrograde motion. Holland.