Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

picosecond

American  
[pee-kuh-sek-uhnd, pahy-] / ˈpi kəˌsɛk ənd, ˈpaɪ- /

noun

  1. one trillionth of a second. ps, psec


picosecond British  
/ ˈpaɪkəʊ-, ˈpiːkəʊˌsɛkənd /

noun

  1. a million millionth of a second; 10 –12 second

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of picosecond

First recorded in 1965–70; pico- + second 2

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.

To improve efficacy and reduce complications from such laser treatment, an Osaka Metropolitan University-led research group has developed an index of the threshold energy density, known as fluence, and the dependent wavelength for picosecond lasers.

From Science Daily • Mar. 27, 2024

"In addition, the implementation of picosecond laser therapy based on scientific evidence, rather than relying solely on physicians' experience, is expected to improve the safety and effectiveness of the treatment."

From Science Daily • Mar. 27, 2024

Using a visible laser pulse to trigger the switch, they sent a strong electrical current pulse lasting just one picosecond through the material.

From Science Daily • Nov. 13, 2023

“In every picosecond of time,” Zinner said, “the basal ganglia have to decide what is relevant, what not to block out so you can survive.”

From Seattle Times • Apr. 12, 2018

It was a point of view that caused him to break ranks with the supercomputing nobility, who for decades focused on building machines that calculated at picosecond intervals.

From New York Times • Dec. 16, 2009

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "picosecond" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com