space-time

noun

ˈspās-ˈtīm How to pronounce space-time (audio)
ˈspās-ˌtīm
1
: a system of one temporal and three spatial coordinates by which any physical object or event can be located

called also space-time continuum

2
: the whole or a portion of physical reality determinable by a usually four-dimensional coordinate system
also : the properties characteristic of such an order

Examples of space-time 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.
Importantly for the team's new measurements, something that arises from warped space-time (in the fourth dimension, remember) is that physical matter isn't the only thing affected by the warps. Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 7 Aug. 2025 Its mission would be to test the limits of Einstein’s theory of general relativity, published in 1915, which states that mass curves space-time, which in turn tells mass how to move. Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025 In other words, space-time is a conceptual model that combines the dimensions of space with a fourth dimension of time. Madison Dapcevich, Discover Magazine, 1 Aug. 2025 The space-time ripples were discovered by LIGO's twin detectors in Livingston, Louisiana and Hanford, Washington. Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 16 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for space-time

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of space-time was in 1910

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Space-time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/space-time. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on space-time

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!