Sta″tion‐a‐ry (–ā̍‐ry̆), a. [L. stationarius: cf. F. stationnaire. Cf. Stationer.] 1. Not moving; not appearing to move; stable; fixed.
Charles Wesley, who is a more stationary man, does not believe the story. Southey.
2. Not improving or getting worse; not growing wiser, greater, better, more excellent, or the contrary.
3. Appearing to be at rest, because moving in the line of vision; not progressive or retrograde, as a planet.
Stationary air(Physiol.), the air which under ordinary circumstances does not leave the lungs in respiration. — Stationary engine. (a) A steam engine that is permanently placed, in distinction from a portable engine, locomotive, marine engine, etc. Specifically: (b) A factory engine, in distinction from a blowing, pumping, or other kind of engine which is also permanently placed.