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

According to quantum mechanics, even at absolute zero, particles retain some energy and remain disoriented – their quantum ground state. —Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 6 Apr. 2026

For many years, the concept of a quantum battery, which uses the principles of quantum mechanics to store energy, has remained theoretical, largely due to the complexities and unpredictability of quantum technology. —New Atlas, 4 Apr. 2026

Some 30 years ago, the mathematician Peter Shor took a niche physics project — the dream of building a computer based on the counterintuitive rules of quantum mechanics — and shook the world. —Quanta Magazine, 3 Apr. 2026

Superposition and entanglement are aspects of quantum mechanics that most of us find weird and counterintuitive. —Joseph Howlett, Scientific American, 31 Mar. 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