kinetic energy

noun

: energy associated with motion

Examples of kinetic energy 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.
This biomimicry—drawing from nature’s own mechanisms—has led to innovative technologies that capture the kinetic energy of waves and transform it into low-carbon electricity. Elena Bou, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025 But as the temperature drops, the kinetic energy of the incoming gas smoothens the filamentary structure, resulting in the fluffy cloud. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 20 Feb. 2025 The kinetic energy from the spacecraft's death dive into the asteroid was enough to slightly nudge the object off its natural orbit around a nearby larger asteroid. Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 6 Feb. 2025 Was the kinetic energy there and the audience responsive? Devon Ivie, Vulture, 6 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for kinetic energy

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of kinetic energy was in 1870

Browse Nearby Entries

Cite this Entry

“Kinetic energy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kinetic%20energy. Accessed 2 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

kinetic energy

noun
: energy associated with motion

Medical Definition

kinetic energy

noun
: energy associated with motion

More from Merriam-Webster on kinetic energy

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!