responsiveness

[ ri-spon-siv-nis ]

noun

1. the quality or state of being responsive.
2. Machinery. the ability of a machine or system to adjust quickly to suddenly altered external conditions, as of speed, load, or temperature, and to resume stable operation without undue delay.

Word History and Origins

Origin of responsiveness¹

First recorded in 1840–50; responsive + -ness

Example Sentences

This was accompanied by heightened neuronal responsiveness to cues associated with rewards like a light turning on to indicate that food or an opioid drug was available.

From Science Daily

"The challenge lies in balancing these controls with the need for flexibility and responsiveness."

From Salon

The Hazleton board has shown “a significant lack of responsiveness” to the needs of the district’s Hispanic residents, the plaintiffs argued in the lawsuit.

From Seattle Times

Compared to his famously strict father, Mr. Lee showed flexibility and responsiveness to the public’s demands, but the P.A.P.’s popularity took a significant hit during his tenure.

From New York Times

The tauntuan’s gentle face and braying cry definitely lend themselves to our responsiveness to it.

From Salon

Related Words

• impartiality
• receptivity