quantum chromodynamics

noun

plural in form but singular or plural in construction

: a theory of fundamental particles based on the assumption that quarks are distinguished by differences in color (see color entry 1 sense 15) and are held together (as in hadrons) by an exchange of gluons

Quantum chromodynamics equations describe the characteristics and behavior of quarks and the peculiar force that binds different quarks and antiquarks together to create protons, neutrons, and other subatomic particles known as hadrons.

—I. Peterson

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for quantum chromodynamics

• aerodynamics
• geodynamics
• hemodynamics
• hydrodynamics
• psychodynamics
• thermodynamics
• ceramics
• dynamics
• electrodynamics
• pharmacodynamics
• hammocks
• magnetohydrodynamics