radial velocity

noun

1
: the component of velocity of a particle in the direction of its radius vector
2
or radial motion : the velocity of relative approach or recession of an observer and a celestial body or other sources of radiation in the line connecting the two : speed in the line of sight

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near radial velocity

Cite this Entry

“Radial velocity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/radial%20velocity. Accessed 5 Oct. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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