dark energy

noun

: a hypothetical form of energy that produces a force that opposes gravity and is thought to be the cause of the accelerating expansion of the universe

Examples of dark 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.
The team of physicists that inferred the existence of dark energy received a Nobel Prize in 2011. — Don Figer, The Conversation, 27 Aug. 2026 The data will help scientists uncover new insights into planetary systems around other stars and map how matter is structured and distributed throughout the cosmos, offering fresh clues about the elusive nature of dark energy. — Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 26 Aug. 2026 The observatory's mission is to investigate dark energy, study galaxy formation and discover new exoplanets. — Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026 Its tasks include researching dark energy, exoplanets, and the physics of distant stars in ways that even NASA’s groundbreaking James Webb Space Telescope isn’t capable of. — Victor Tangermann, Futurism, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dark energy

Word History

First Known Use

1998, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dark energy was in 1998

Rhymes for dark energy

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Browse Nearby Words

darkener
dark energy
darken someone's door/doors
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Cite this Entry

“Dark energy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dark%20energy. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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