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

Quantum computers, which aim to solve much more difficult problems than traditional computers or AI, need to reach near absolute zero — or the lowest possible temperature — for the quantum bits, or qubits, to remain stable and perform calculations. —Rachyl Jones, semafor.com, 21 Nov. 2025

At first, these cores are cold, less than 100 kelvin (i.e., 100 degrees above absolute zero) and complex molecules exist as ices on dust grains. —Keith Cooper, Space.com, 7 Nov. 2025

When cooled to a few degrees above absolute zero, these metals become superconductors. —Eli Levenson-Falk, The Conversation, 8 Oct. 2025

Atoms must be trapped, cooled almost to absolute zero, and probed with lasers tuned to astonishing levels of precision. —Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 27 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for absolute zero

• biro
• spiro
• nonzero
• 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