quadrillion

noun

qua·​dril·​lion kwä-ˈdril-yən How to pronounce quadrillion (audio)
US : a number equal to 1 followed by 15 zeros see Table of Numbers
also, British : a number equal to 1 followed by 24 zeros see Table of Numbers
quadrillion adjective
quadrillionth adjective or noun

Examples of quadrillion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The crystals can hold quadrillions of atoms instead of just a few, so a laser could rule out wavelengths at a rapid clip. Quanta Magazine, 4 Sep. 2024 Hard Science Einstein’s theory of general relativity passes another test, with implications for dark matter and dark energy The theory is accurate within at least one part in a quadrillion. Big Think, 24 June 2024 Also, a single vacation on Expedia involves 1.26 quadrillion possible variable combinations, such as hotel locations and price ranges. Kara Peeler, Sunset Magazine, 2 May 2024 The broods will emerge peacefully, but Cooley said hundreds of trillions – or even quadrillions – of cicadas are expected. Caitlin O'Kane, CBS News, 8 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for quadrillion 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'quadrillion.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French, from quadri- + -illion (as in million)

First Known Use

circa 1690, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of quadrillion was circa 1690

Dictionary Entries Near quadrillion

Cite this Entry

“Quadrillion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/quadrillion. Accessed 5 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

quadrillion

noun
qua·​dril·​lion kwä-ˈdril-yən How to pronounce quadrillion (audio)
US : a number equal to 1 followed by 15 zeros see number
also, British : a number equal to 1 followed by 24 zeros see number
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!