picosecond

American  

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

noun

1. one trillionth of a second. ps, psec

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picosecond British  

/ ˈpaɪkəʊ-, ˈpiːkəʊˌsɛkənd /

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of picosecond

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

Example Sentences

After knocking out an electron from the neon atom using soft X-rays, they followed how the system evolved for up to a picosecond, which is extremely long on an atomic timescale, before the decay occurred.

From Science Daily • Mar. 24, 2026

"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