high-energy

adjective

high-en·​er·​gy ˈhī-ˈe-nər-jē 

1

a

: having such speed and kinetic energy as to exhibit relativistic departure from classical laws of motion

—used especially of elementary particles whose velocity has been imparted by an accelerator

b

: of or relating to high-energy particles

2

: yielding a relatively large amount of energy when undergoing hydrolysis

Examples of high-energy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The system is a high-energy laser weapon system that can intercept specific projectiles. —Mike Brest, The Washington Examiner, 15 Oct. 2025

It was born with the same temperature everywhere, it was born spatially flat, and it was born in such a way that those non-existent high-energy relics were forbidden. —Big Think, 14 Oct. 2025

Since these are not high-energy lasers, these defenses may require no more than switching off instruments or turning them away from the threat. —New Atlas, 13 Oct. 2025

This radiation can take the form of tiny particles moving rapidly or high-energy electromagnetic waves emerging from the nucleus. —Kelling Donald, The Conversation, 13 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for high-energy

• bioenergy
• energy

Medical Definition

high-energy

adjective

: yielding a relatively large amount of energy when undergoing hydrolysis

high-energy phosphate bonds in ATP