potential energy

American  

[puh-ten-shuhl en-er-jee] / pəˈtɛn ʃəl ˈɛn ər dʒi /

noun

Physics.

1. the energy of a body or a system with respect to the position of the body or the arrangement of the particles of the system.

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potential energy British  

noun

1.  Ep.   V.   U.   φ.   PE.  the energy of a body or system as a result of its position in an electric, magnetic, or gravitational field. It is measured in joules (SI units), electronvolts, ergs, etc

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potential energy Scientific  

1. The energy possessed by a body as a result of its position or condition rather than its motion. A raised weight, coiled spring, or charged battery has potential energy.

2. Compare kinetic energy

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potential energy Cultural  

1. The energy an object has because of its position, rather than its motion. An object held in a person's hand has potential energy, which turns to kinetic energy — the energy of motion — when the person lets it go, and it drops to the ground.

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Etymology

Origin of potential energy

First recorded in 1850–55

Compare meaning

How does potential-energy compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• kinetic energy vs. potential energy
• kinetic vs. potential energy

Example Sentences

To address affordability, New York is providing assistance for potential electric vehicle buyers in the form of tax credits, in addition to the existing ones available through the Inflation Reduction Act.

From Salon • Oct. 19, 2022

Last week, the FAA proposed another airworthiness directive to address potential electric discharge in the fuel tanks of Boeing 777 series planes if a lightning strike or an electrical short-circuit occurs.

From Reuters • Aug. 2, 2022

"To bring confidence and power to potential electric car drivers we need more, and more reliable and accessible charge points as soon as possible."

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2022

For the first time, Rolls owners who visit the company's website can post their own comments, and exchange views about a potential electric future for the world's most expensive car.

From Time • Jul. 18, 2011

Only one-eighth of the Mississippi River system's potential electric power is harnessed.

From Time Magazine Archive