potential energy

noun

: the energy that a piece of matter has because of its position or nature or because of the arrangement of parts

Examples of potential energy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Beyond providing a potential energy boost, research suggests morning showers may offer health benefits, especially if the water is on the cooler side. — Sherri Gordon, Health, 22 July 2026

Just as a landmine holds enormous potential energy, human differences carry the potential for volatility if unmanaged. — Susan MacKenty Brady, Fortune, 14 July 2026

Before investing in a new AC system, compare the potential energy savings against the purchase price, repair history and expected lifespan of your existing equipment. — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 30 June 2026

Moreover, large mammals reuse significant shares of energy spent running, because a part of the kinetic and potential energy deployed to run is temporarily stored as elastic strain in muscles and tendons and redeployed as elastic recoil. — Literary Hub, 22 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for potential energy

• bioenergy

Kids Definition

potential energy

noun

: the amount of energy a thing (as a weight raised to a height or a coiled spring) has because of its position or because of the arrangement of its parts

Medical Definition

potential energy

noun

: the energy that a piece of matter has because of its position or because of the arrangement of parts