physical science

noun

: any of the natural sciences (such as physics, chemistry, and astronomy) that deal primarily with nonliving materials
physical scientist noun

Examples of physical science 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.
Like the physical sciences, economics uses a methodology that produces refutable implications and tests these implications using solid statistical techniques. Ge Bai, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025 The report shows that STEM fields of study like engineering, life sciences and physical science are trending more popular among undergraduate students, while the number of architecture, business and social science majors steadily declined. Jennah Pendleton, Sacramento Bee, 7 Jan. 2025 At that event last March, Oliver, a sixth-grader at the time, won the Grand Award in physical sciences. Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Jan. 2025 Innovation in the physical sciences goes underappreciated in some national security circles, according to Dhruva Rajendra, the founder and chief executive of Deterrence. Colin Demarest, Axios, 18 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for physical science 

Word History

First Known Use

1705, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of physical science was in 1705

Dictionary Entries Near physical science

Cite this Entry

“Physical science.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physical%20science. Accessed 8 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

physical science

noun
: any of the natural sciences (as physics, geology, and astronomy) that deal primarily with nonliving materials

Medical Definition

physical science

noun
: any of the natural sciences (as physics, chemistry, and astronomy) that deal primarily with nonliving materials
physical scientist noun

More from Merriam-Webster on physical science

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!