high-energy

adjective

high-en·​er·​gy ˈhī-ˈe-nər-jē 

1

a

: having such speed and kinetic energy as to exhibit relativistic departure from classical laws of motion

—used especially of elementary particles whose velocity has been imparted by an accelerator

b

: of or relating to high-energy particles

2

: yielding a relatively large amount of energy when undergoing hydrolysis

Examples of high-energy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Photos capture the high-energy of Outside Lands, where 225,000 festivalgoers—75,000 per day—gathered in Golden Gate Park for a three-day celebration of music, culture, and community. — Ray Chavez, Mercury News, 11 Aug. 2026

Chinese researchers have developed a high-energy lithium-metal primary battery that combines long endurance with powerful bursts while operating at temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C). — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 11 Aug. 2026

The size of the catalog gives astronomers a powerful new dataset for studying the high-energy universe. — Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 11 Aug. 2026

The high-energy American has brand deals that span the gamut, ranging from apparel to beverages and vehicles to banking. — Tim Newcomb, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for high-energy

• bioenergy
• energy

Medical Definition

high-energy

adjective

: yielding a relatively large amount of energy when undergoing hydrolysis

high-energy phosphate bonds in ATP