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.
Once a boulder begins to roll down the hill, its potential energy from the force of gravity first transforms to kinetic energy and then maybe to thermal energy or to the work of knocking down a tree. — Matthew Koss, The Conversation, 24 Aug. 2026 The study also documents how hypersonic projectile strikes force diamond to turn into graphite in millionths of a second, a rapid phase change that absorbs kinetic energy. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 20 Aug. 2026 Careful engineering is necessary to ensure the safety of full-sized bipedal robots in close proximity to humans since kinetic energy in falls or collisions is a serious worry. — Chuck Brooks, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026 As the spherules slowed, their kinetic energy became heat, producing an intense pulse of thermal radiation. — Stefanie Waldek, Space.com, 1 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for kinetic energy

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Browse Nearby Words

kinetic art
kinetic energy
kinetic friction
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Cite this Entry

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

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about kinetic energy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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