physics

[fiz-iks]

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. the science that deals with matter, energy, motion, and force.

physics

/ ˈfɪzɪks /

noun

1. 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

2. physical properties of behaviour

   the physics of the electron

3. archaic,  natural science or natural philosophy

physics

1. The scientific study of matter, energy, space, and time, and of the relations between them.

2. The behavior of a given physical system, especially as understood by a physical theory.

physics

1. The scientific study of matter and motion. (See mechanics, optics, quantum mechanics, relativity, and thermodynamics.)

Word History and Origins

Origin of physics¹

First recorded in 1580–90; physic, -ics

Word History and Origins

Origin of physics¹

C16: from Latin physica, translation of Greek ta phusika natural things, from phusis nature

Example Sentences

Elias achieved three of his A*s – in chemistry, maths and physics – last year, while he scored an A* in further maths and A in biology this year.

From BBC

The authors include veterans in atmospheric science, physics, ecology, forecast modeling and several other fields at universities, think tanks and research institutions in the United States and abroad.

From Los Angeles Times

In physics, when two opposing forces pull so strongly, a new equilibrium bursts out.

From Los Angeles Times

All these, plus advances in computing power and a better understanding of the physics of a hurricane through more data and research, have led to the significant improvements.

From BBC

“All the work, the effort, the physics. And God’s reward, most of all.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• biology