[f. Gr. αἰόλος changeful + -τροπία turning.] Change of electrical, optical or other physical qualities consequent upon change of position, as when the refractive property of a transparent body is not the same in all directions; the opposite of isotropy; anisotropy.
1881. Sir W. Thomson, in Nature, No. 628. 47. One of the most curious and interesting things in the mathematics of æolotropy.
Mod. The well-known æolotropy of Iceland spars.
