gauge theory

noun

: any of several theories in physics that explain the transmission of a fundamental force between two interacting particles by the exchange of an elementary particle

Examples of gauge theory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The conversation piqued his interest in gauge theory. Rachel Crowell, Quanta Magazine, 1 Mar. 2023 If two particles collide because of the weak force, gauge theory requires — because of the short distances of the interaction — that the gauge bosons that are exchanged be massive and possibly electrically charged. BostonGlobe.com, 27 July 2021 Gerard ’t Hooft and Martinus Veltman [who shared the 1999 Nobel Prize in Physics] provided a method for calculating the mathematics in gauge theories, which underlie the Standard Model. Quanta Magazine, 18 Oct. 2016

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'gauge theory.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gauge theory was in 1973

Dictionary Entries Near gauge theory

Cite this Entry

“Gauge theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gauge%20theory. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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