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high-energy

adjective

high-en·​er·​gy ˈhī-ˈe-nər-jē How to pronounce high-energy (audio)
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
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After their high-energy routine, Carrie Ann praised their performance and said that Alix created her own style throughout the competition. Brianne Tracy, PEOPLE, 26 Nov. 2025 The photons in a particle accelerator’s beam dump are intense, high-energy radiation byproducts of the main physics experiment. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 26 Nov. 2025 Although invisible, the plasmasphere acts as a buffer against high-energy particles and helps regulate how disturbances from the sun ripple through near-Earth space, playing a crucial role in protecting satellites, radio signals and navigation systems. Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 25 Nov. 2025 For a more high-energy nightlife experience, XS Nightclub is the place to be. David Morris, Travel + Leisure, 25 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for high-energy

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of high-energy was in 1934

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Cite this Entry

“High-energy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/high-energy. Accessed 2 Dec. 2025.

Medical Definition

high-energy

adjective
: yielding a relatively large amount of energy when undergoing hydrolysis
high-energy phosphate bonds in ATP
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