Midstream

/ˈmɪdˌstriːm/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Relating to the middle portion of a stream, or occurring in the middle of a process.
The midstream oil industry is crucial for transporting crude oil to refineries.
Describing a phase that is not at the beginning or end but rather in the middle of a sequence.
Her midstream adjustments to the proposal helped to refine the final outcome.
adverb
In the middle of a stream or process.
The decision was made midstream, altering the course of the project significantly.
At a point in time during an ongoing process or activity.
She realized midstream that she had forgotten to include critical data in her report.
During the progression of a narrative or conversation.
He interrupted her midstream, eager to share his own thoughts on the matter.

Etymology

Combination of 'mid' meaning middle and 'stream' referring to the flow of water.

Common Phrases and Expressions

midstream changes:
Changes made during an ongoing process.
in the midstream:
At a point in the process that is not at the beginning or the end.
midstream operations:
Activities that occur during the transportation and processing of resources.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

To be actively involved in a process that is already underway.
We're midstream on this project, so let’s stick to the plan.
To adjust plans or strategies while they are in progress.
They had to pivot midstream when new information came to light.