unified field theory

American  

noun

Physics.

1. electroweak theory.

2. any field theory, especially Einstein's, that attempts to combine the gravitational and electromagnetic fields in a single mathematical framework, thus extending the general theory of relativity.

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unified field theory British  

noun

1. any theory capable of describing in one set of equations the properties of gravitational fields, electromagnetic fields, and strong and weak nuclear interactions. No satisfactory theory has yet been found

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unified field theory Scientific  

/ yo̅o̅′nə-fīd′ /

1. A theory that unites and explains the basic forces of nature (strong, electroweak, and gravitational forces) as manifestations of a single physical principle. No unified field theory that has been proposed so far has gained broad acceptance.

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unified field theory Cultural  

1. Any theory in which two seemingly different forces are seen to be fundamentally identical. Maxwell's equations express a unified field theory that demonstrates the basic identity of electricity and magnetism, and the standard model postulates a basic identity for the strong force, the weak force, and electromagnetism.

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Example Sentences

As she got older, that percentage got higher and higher, until at last, on her deathbed, it seemed to max out just shy of a unified field theory of loitering.

From Slate

He says, "I've got a unified field theory."

From Salon

The contemporary fusion of religious and nationalist ideas has created a unified field theory of global cultural politics, defined by a sense that cosmopolitan liberal forces are threatening the very survival of traditional Christian communities.

From Salon

“We’re all looking for a unified field theory for what’s going on,” said Mark Zandi, the chief economist at Moody’s Analytics.

From New York Times

Perhaps he was wise not to strain for a unified field theory, but a reader may hunger for fewer meandering quotations from friends and more analysis from the author.

From New York Times