quantum mechanics

noun

plural in form but singular or plural in construction

: a theory of matter that is based on the concept of the possession of wave properties by elementary particles, that affords a mathematical interpretation of the structure and interactions of matter on the basis of these properties, and that incorporates within it quantum theory and the uncertainty principle

called also wave mechanics

quantum mechanical adjective

quantum mechanically adverb

Examples of quantum mechanics in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Quantum computers use quantum bits, or qubits, to process information according to the principles of quantum mechanics. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2026

In a superfluid, quantum mechanics coordinates the way different atoms move, letting the liquid flow with no friction at all. — Matthew Von Hippel, Scientific American, 7 Nov. 2026

According to quantum mechanics, every object is ultimately wavelike, and the greater its mass, the shorter its wavelength. — George Musser, Quanta Magazine, 2 Nov. 2026

Quantum computers harness quantum mechanics to solve computational problems significantly faster than even the largest supercomputers. — Sam Birchall, Fortune, 29 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1922, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for quantum mechanics

• biomechanics
• hispanics
• organics
• volcanics
• panics

Medical Definition

quantum mechanics

noun, plural in form but singular or plural in construction

: a theory of matter that is based on the concept of the possession of wave properties by elementary particles, that affords a mathematical interpretation of the structure and interactions of matter on the basis of these properties, and that incorporates within it quantum theory and the uncertainty principle

called also wave mechanics

quantum mechanical adjective

quantum mechanically adverb