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

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

Precision engineering for plasma confinement The inner steel hull blocks heat transfer, which protects external superconducting magnets that operate near absolute zero. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 23 July 2026

The department maintains an absolute zero-tolerance policy for any actions that compromise our core values, our strict ethical standards, or the public trust. — Karen Morfitt, CBS News, 30 June 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