relativistic

adjective

rel·​a·​tiv·​is·​tic ˌre-lə-ti-ˈvi-stik How to pronounce relativistic (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or characterized by relativity or relativism
2
: moving at a velocity such that there is a significant change in properties (such as mass) in accordance with the theory of relativity
a relativistic electron
relativistically adverb

Examples of relativistic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As this magnetic snap occurred, matter was flung outward at relativistic speeds. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 9 Dec. 2025 Some pairs of relativistic jets can stretch out over more than a million light years, wider than the arms of their host galaxies. Kiona N. Smith, Space.com, 9 Dec. 2025 The plasma oscillates in the laser’s wake, and electrons get dragged along in the plasma’s path, accelerating them to relativistic speeds. IEEE Spectrum, 4 Dec. 2025 Truman did not see any moral virtue in sacrificing our soldiers on the altar of an abstract globalism or a relativistic humanitarianism. Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for relativistic

Word History

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of relativistic was in 1886

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Cite this Entry

“Relativistic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relativistic. Accessed 27 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

relativistic

adjective
rel·​a·​tiv·​is·​tic ˌrel-ət-iv-ˈis-tik How to pronounce relativistic (audio)
: of, relating to, or characterized by relativity
relativistically adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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