/ri spon"siv nis/ , n.
1. the quality or state of being responsive.
2. Mach. 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. Also, responsivity /ri spon siv"i tee, ree'spon-/ .
[ 1840-50; RESPONSIVE + -NESS ]