In certain circumstances, one may measure surface tensions that are different from the equilibrium value. Such a surface tension is called the dynamic surface (or interfacial) tension
(
or

). The equilibrium value is then called the static surface (or interfacial) tension
(
or

). The modifying signs may be omitted if there is no danger of ambiguity.
Source:
PAC, 1972, 31, 577
(Manual of Symbols and Terminology for Physicochemical Quantities and Units, Appendix II: Definitions, Terminology and Symbols in Colloid and Surface Chemistry)
on page 597