instrument for illustrating the dynamics of rotation, 1868, from gyro- + -stat.
Entries linking to gyrostat
gyro-
word-forming element meaning "gyrating" or "gyroscope," from Greek gyros "a ring, circle" (see gyre (n.)).
-stat
word-forming element used in making names of devices for stabilizing or regulating (such as thermostat), from Greek statos "standing, stationary," from PIE *ste-to-, suffixed form of root *sta- "to stand, make or be firm." First used in heliostat "an instrument for causing the sun to appear stationary" (1742). Related: -static.
gyrostatics n.
branch of dynamics dealing with rotating bodies, 1883, from gyrostatic (1875); see gyrostat + -ics.