absolute zero

noun

: a theoretical temperature characterized by complete absence of heat and motion and equivalent to exactly −273.15°C or −459.67°F

Examples of absolute zero in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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For example, some quantum computers have to be operated at very cold temperatures, near absolute zero. Kif Leswing, CNBC, 27 June 2025 The nuclear fusion reaction is surrounded by a magnetic field more than 400,000 times more powerful than the Earth’s and chilled with cryogenic gases close to absolute zero. Ella Nilsen, CNN Money, 6 May 2025 Space is very cold—like near absolute zero—so cooling wouldn’t be needed. Michael Wu, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025 To produce the prebiotic molecules, the researchers first froze simple gases to near absolute zero. Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 22 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for absolute zero

Word History

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of absolute zero was in 1798

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Cite this Entry

“Absolute zero.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absolute%20zero. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

absolute zero

noun
: a hypothetical temperature that has never been reached, represents no heat at all, and is equal to approximately −273.15°C or −459.67°F

Medical Definition

absolute zero

noun
: a theoretical temperature characterized by complete absence of heat and equivalent to exactly −273.15°C or −459.67°F

More from Merriam-Webster on absolute zero

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