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

Trained in physics and mechanical engineering, Holme began his career in academia as a research associate at Stanford University. —Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 20 Jan. 2026

Prior to being promoted to the post in 1958 from her position as a computer at the west area computing unit of Langley under Vaughan, Jackson obtained permission from the city of Hampton to take graduate-level math and physics courses at the University of Virginia alongside white peers. —Nicole Briese, PEOPLE, 19 Jan. 2026

The path to the Lombardi Trophy is a labyrinth of salary cap gymnastics (not an issue the last time the 49ers won it), injury luck, and, apparently, being on the right side of officiating decisions that require a degree in theoretical physics to understand. —Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 18 Jan. 2026

Because antimatter is the bridge to the greatest divide in physics. —Paul Sutter, Space.com, 18 Jan. 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