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

That finding is interesting because the processes that produce neutrinos – namely the decay of subatomic particles – should also produce high-energy electromagnetic radiation – namely gamma rays. — Yjan Gordon, The Conversation, 30 Oct. 2026

These molecules are a kind of free radical, a broad term for a class of unstable, high-energy molecules. — Susanne Rust follow, Los Angeles Times, 29 Oct. 2026

Light energy enters through a primary, high-energy pathway where sunlight is strongly absorbed. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 28 Oct. 2026

Roan delivered a high-energy performance to the just over 6,000 capacity room. — Nicole Fell, HollywoodReporter, 23 Oct. 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