What did Peter Debye mean by dielectric relaxation?

Peter Debye defined dielectric relaxation as the time required for dipolar molecules—those with an uneven distribution of electric charge—to orient themselves in response to an alternating electric field.1

Because these molecules possess a permanent electric dipole moment, they naturally attempt to align with an applied field. However, this rotation is not instantaneous; it is a time-dependent process that reflects the molecular dynamics within the material. By studying this lag in orientation, scientists can gain valuable insights into molecular structure and bonding.21