Hysteresis \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.
   
[1913 Webster]