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

The potential energy generation facing delays is the equivalent of 59 traditional nuclear reactors, enough to power more than 44 million homes simultaneously. —Mark Chediak, Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2026

This 'potential energy' is gained through surface heating. —Ron Smiley, CBS News, 10 Mar. 2026

New York — Stocks fell and oil prices traded above $100 per barrel Monday as investors grappled with a potential energy crisis caused by the war with Iran. —John Towfighi, CNN Money, 9 Mar. 2026

Bessent sought to calm concerns about a potential energy shock, arguing that oil markets are well supplied even as tensions escalate in the Middle East. —Yun Li, CNBC, 4 Mar. 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