physics
Americannoun
-
physics
plural
noun
-
the branch of science concerned with the properties of matter and energy and the relationships between them. It is based on mathematics and traditionally includes mechanics, optics, electricity and magnetism, acoustics, and heat. Modern physics, based on quantum theory, includes atomic, nuclear, particle, and solid-state studies. It can also embrace applied fields such as geophysics and meteorology
-
physical properties of behaviour
the physics of the electron
-
archaic natural science or natural philosophy
-
The scientific study of matter, energy, space, and time, and of the relations between them.
-
The behavior of a given physical system, especially as understood by a physical theory.
Other Word Forms
Noun Inflected Forms
Etymology
Origin of physics
Compare meaning
How does physics compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
Physics is a kind of science, specifically the science of matter and energy and how they interact. Physics is the study of physical matter, energy, and how they work together. Kinetic energy and potential energy are part of physics. Although it may sound really advanced — and it is — physics is involved in everything we do. Champion pool players have a good understanding of how physics influences the movement of the balls. People who design roller coasters better know their physics. And if you've ever rigged up a pulley or a lever, then you've done basic physics.
Vocabulary lists containing physics
Albert Einstein
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
A Brief History of Time
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
"Roller Girl" by Victoria Jamieson
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Quantum computers represent a fundamentally different type of computing that uses the principles of quantum physics to solve problems far beyond the capabilities of today’s best supercomputers.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 14, 2026
"I think they would help answer the fundamental questions of physics that defy logic," he says.
From BBC ● Aug. 14, 2026
Operating at room temperature makes the metacrystal relevant to technologies well beyond basic physics research.
From Science Daily ● Aug. 8, 2026
Success would show how a breakthrough originating in fundamental quantum physics could lead directly to improvements in next-generation solar energy technology.
From Science Daily ● Aug. 8, 2026
In Aristotelian physics different laws apply in the sublunary and supralunary spheres.
From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
