absolute zero

noun

: a theoretical temperature characterized by complete absence of heat and motion and equivalent to exactly −273.15°C or −459.67°F

Examples of absolute zero in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That proximity should allow Chang’e 7 to prospect for water ice trapped in smaller depressions near Shackleton that, because of the moon’s tilt, never see sunlight and have temperatures just a few dozen degrees above absolute zero. — Jonathan O'Callaghan, Scientific American, 20 Aug. 2026

In this approach, atoms are cooled down to temperatures near absolute zero using lasers and changes are recorded by comparing the frequency of the clock to these slowed down atoms. — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 17 Aug. 2026

Everything is handled via wiring, eliminating the need for lots of microwave-carrying cabling into the refrigeration system that keeps the hardware near absolute zero. — ArsTechnica, 29 July 2026

Everything above absolute zero emits thermal radiation, and any temperature difference between object and surroundings produces a heat signature that is invisible to our eyes but perfectly legible to the right sensor. — New Atlas, 29 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for absolute zero

• biro
• spiro
• subzero
• superhero

Kids Definition

absolute zero

noun

: a hypothetical temperature that has never been reached, represents no heat at all, and is equal to approximately −273.15°C or −459.67°F

Medical Definition

absolute zero

noun

: a theoretical temperature characterized by complete absence of heat and equivalent to exactly −273.15°C or −459.67°F