physics

noun

phys·​ics ˈfi-ziks 

plural in form but singular or plural in construction

1

: a science that deals with matter and energy and their interactions

2

a

: the physical processes and phenomena of a particular system

b

: the physical properties and composition of something

Examples of physics in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

An energy efficiency of 130% would violate the law of conservation of energy, the bedrock of physics. —New Atlas, 13 Apr. 2026

Werner, a professor of environmental physics and complex systems with the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, is looking at the potential of a two-year suspension without pay. —Teri Figueroa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Apr. 2026

This is because antihydrogen is one of the cleanest systems for testing the laws of physics. —Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 11 Apr. 2026

On the ninety-first day of Zohran Mamdani’s mayoralty, a group of five truly young New Yorkers convened in a physics classroom at the Bronx High School of Science—Mamdani’s alma mater—to discuss his time in office so far. —Molly Fischer, New Yorker, 10 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin physica, plural, natural science, from Greek physika, from neuter plural of physikos of nature, from physis growth, nature, from phyein to bring forth — more at be

First Known Use

1715, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing physics

• high-energy physics
• particle physics

Rhymes for physics

• astrophysics
• geophysics
• metaphysics
• tectonophysics

Kids Definition

physics

noun

phys·​ics ˈfiz-iks 

1

: a science that deals with matter and energy and their actions upon each other in the fields of mechanics, heat, light, electricity, sound, and the atomic nucleus

2

: physical composition, characteristics, or processes

the physics of sound

Medical Definition

physics

noun, plural in form but singular or plural in construction

phys·​ics ˈfiz-iks 

: a science that deals with matter and energy and their interactions in the fields of mechanics, acoustics, optics, heat, electricity, magnetism, radiation, atomic structure, and nuclear phenomena