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

Thermal Imaging Systems And Frigid Temperatures Thermal imaging systems detect the infrared radiation emitted by all objects with a temperature above absolute zero, producing images based on heat differentials rather than visible light. —Vikram Mittal, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026

Then, using lasers, the researchers chilled the atoms to near absolute zero to stop them from jiggling. —Paul Sutter, Space.com, 18 Jan. 2026

Among the more unconventional candidates are electrons suspended just above the surface of liquid helium, at temperatures only a few degrees above absolute zero. —Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 17 Jan. 2026

There were no scrums, barely any big hits and absolute zero sense of disdain from one bench to the other. —Aaron Portzline, New York Times, 5 Jan. 2026

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