chaos theory

noun

: a branch of mathematical and physical theory that deals with the nature and consequences of chaos and chaotic systems

Examples of chaos theory in a Sentence

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When Lorenz, as a sole author, published his groundbreaking paper on what would become the foundation of chaos theory, Hamilton was just about to do work for NASA. Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 12 May 2026 Other data points corroborate the chaos theory. Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 6 May 2026 In 1969, the chaos theory founder Edward Lorenz articulated the Butterfly Effect, in which a single, small action in one area can lead to broader, unexpected outcomes in others. Gary Baum, HollywoodReporter, 30 Apr. 2026 Dern returns as paleobotanist Ellie Sattler, with Goldblum once again playing chaos theory mathematician Ian Malcolm. Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 8 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for chaos theory

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chaos theory was in 1938

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Cite this Entry

“Chaos theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chaos%20theory. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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