momentum

noun

mo·​men·​tum mō-ˈmen-təm 

mə-

plural momenta mō-ˈmen-tə 

mə-

or momentums

1

: a property (see property sense 1a) of a moving body that the body has by virtue of its mass (see mass entry 2 sense 1c) and motion and that is equal to the product of the body's mass and velocity

broadly : a property of a moving body that determines the length of time required to bring it to rest when under the action of a constant force or moment

2

: strength or force gained by motion or by a series of events

The wagon gained momentum as it rolled down the hill.

Synonyms

• boost
• encouragement
• goad
• impetus
• impulse
• incentive
• incitation
• incitement
• instigation
• motivation
• provocation
• spur
• stimulant
• stimulus
• yeast

Examples of momentum in a Sentence

The company has had a successful year and hopes to maintain its momentum by introducing new products.

The movie loses momentum toward the end.

Recent Examples on the Web

But seizing the early momentum and translating it into long-term economic success requires a predictable policy landscape. —Energy Innovation: Policy and Technology, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024

While the Volunteers managed a solid 16-play, 79-yard drive to put up 10 points in the second quarter, their defense held Ohio State scoreless during that stretch but couldn't sustain the momentum. —Gord Magill, Newsweek, 22 Dec. 2024

Their next six contests present a chance to keep the momentum rolling, starting with a battered Pelicans squad missing both Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. —Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 21 Dec. 2024

The momentum continues to build with the sun in Capricorn sextile Saturn in Pisces on Jan. 4, surrounding our endeavors with a supportive energy that makes even the most difficult tasks seem doable. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 21 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, movement

First Known Use

1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing momentum

• angular momentum
• gather/gain momentum
• gather momentum/strength
• lose momentum
• pick up speed/momentum

Kids Definition

momentum

noun

mo·​men·​tum mō-ˈment-əm 

plural momenta -ˈment-ə  or momentums

1

: the characteristic of a moving body that is caused by its mass and its motion

2

: impetus sense 1

Medical Definition

momentum

noun

mo·​men·​tum mō-ˈment-əm, mə-ˈment- 

plural momenta -ˈment-ə  or momentums

: a property of a moving body that the body has by virtue of its mass and motion and that is equal to the product of the body's mass and velocity

broadly : a property of a moving body that determines the length of time required to bring it to rest when under the action of a constant force