kinetic energy

noun

: energy associated with motion

Examples of kinetic energy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Despite its speed and the sheer kinetic energy at work, the car feels calm. — Tim Pitt, Robb Report, 22 July 2026 The former uses a combustible fuel source that gets accelerated through a nozzle, while the latter uses electrical energy to convert propellant into kinetic energy. — Victor Tangermann, Futurism, 9 July 2026 The kinetic energy becomes light, creating a strange and intensely bright interacting supernova. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 8 July 2026 The enormous kinetic energy generated by the impact is sufficient to destroy or disable the target without carrying a large explosive payload. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for kinetic energy

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of kinetic energy was in 1870

Rhymes for kinetic energy

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Browse Nearby Words

kinetic art
kinetic energy
kinetic friction
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Kinetic energy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kinetic%20energy. Accessed 25 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

kinetic energy

noun
: energy associated with motion

Medical Definition

kinetic energy

noun
: energy associated with motion

More from Merriam-Webster on kinetic energy

Nglish: Translation of kinetic energy for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about kinetic energy

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