Hilbert space

noun

Hil·​bert space ˈhil-bərt- How to pronounce Hilbert space (audio)
: a vector space for which a scalar product is defined and in which every Cauchy sequence composed of elements in the space converges to a limit in the space

Examples of Hilbert space in a Sentence

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As the world influences the object, changing its state, the arrow turns smoothly through Hilbert space. — Quanta Magazine, 26 Aug. 2026 That’s all well and good, but our Universe isn’t well-described as a physical Hilbert space, so that isn’t a compelling argument. — Ethan Siegel, Big Think, 8 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for Hilbert space

Word History

Etymology

David Hilbert

First Known Use

1911, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Hilbert space was in 1911

Rhymes for Hilbert space

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Browse Nearby Words

Hilbert
Hilbert space
hilch
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Cite this Entry

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

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More from Merriam-Webster on Hilbert space

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Hilbert space

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