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

“His mind operates at genius level, blending physics mastery with visionary entrepreneurship that reshapes industries,” one response read.

Read more on Salon

One of the lead researchers, Dr Stephen Hicks from UCL, said combining physics and machine learning in this way could help forecast volcanic eruptions.

Read more on BBC

Su has a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a deep understanding of the physics behind her company’s products.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

"This work is a great example of how combining planetary science, geodynamics and mineral physics can help us solve some of Earth's oldest mysteries," said Jie Deng of Princeton University, a co-author of the study.

Read more on Science Daily

"The capability to independently control plasma acceleration and compression gives us a new dial to tune the physics and increase the plasma density," says Adams.

Read more on Science Daily

Related Words

• biology