chaos theory
noun
: a branch of mathematical and physical theory that deals with the nature and consequences of chaos and chaotic systems
Examples of chaos theory in a Sentence
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When Lorenz, as a sole author, published his groundbreaking paper on what would become the foundation of chaos theory, Hamilton was just about to do work for NASA.
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Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 12 May 2026
Other data points corroborate the chaos theory.
—Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 6 May 2026
In 1969, the chaos theory founder Edward Lorenz articulated the Butterfly Effect, in which a single, small action in one area can lead to broader, unexpected outcomes in others.
—Gary Baum, HollywoodReporter, 30 Apr. 2026
In the 1993 blockbuster film Jurassic Park, Jeff Goldblum’s character, Dr. Ian Malcolm, explains chaos theory—commonly known as the butterfly effect—the concept that even the smallest events, like a butterfly’s wing flap, could set off a chain reaction with wide-ranging repercussions.
—Jake Angelo, Fortune, 11 Mar. 2026
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Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 12 May 2026
Other data points corroborate the chaos theory.
—Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 6 May 2026
In 1969, the chaos theory founder Edward Lorenz articulated the Butterfly Effect, in which a single, small action in one area can lead to broader, unexpected outcomes in others.
—Gary Baum, HollywoodReporter, 30 Apr. 2026
In the 1993 blockbuster film Jurassic Park, Jeff Goldblum’s character, Dr. Ian Malcolm, explains chaos theory—commonly known as the butterfly effect—the concept that even the smallest events, like a butterfly’s wing flap, could set off a chain reaction with wide-ranging repercussions.
—Jake Angelo, Fortune, 11 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for chaos theory
Cite this Entry
“Chaos theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chaos%20theory. Accessed 16 May. 2026.
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