Standard Lemma guide

deadband

noun · 3 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

noun

Meaning 1

The range through which an input can be varied without initiating an observable response. Deadband is usually expressed in percent of span.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: countable, uncountable

Examples

  • The thermostat was errantly set with a deadband from 18°C to 27°C, causing the air conditioner to not turn on below 27°C, and the heater to not come on above 18°C.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

noun

Meaning 2

In the domain of a transfer function, the band of input values where the output is zero. "(the output is 'dead' - no action occurs)"

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: countable, uncountable

Topics: mathematics, sciences, systems-theory

Examples

  • The game will not respond to small movements of the joystick, until the stick is pushed out of its dead zone.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

noun

Meaning 3

Backlash in a mechanical system.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: countable, uncountable

Topics: engineering, mechanical, mechanical-engineering, natural-sciences, physical-sciences

Examples

  • The steering system has so much backlash that it takes a full rotation of the wheel to exit its deadband and affect the steering.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

dead + band