-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
atomic clock
noun
: a precision clock that depends for its operation on an electrical oscillator regulated by the natural vibration frequencies of an atomic system (such as a beam of cesium atoms)
Examples of atomic clock in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
However, compared to a quantum clock, atomic clocks are as accurate as a one-dollar antique pocket watch that's been whacked several times with a coal hammer.
—
David Szondy, New Atlas, 12 Jan. 2025
At their core, atomic clocks and nuclear clocks work using the same principle.
—
Allison Parshall, Scientific American, 11 Sep. 2024
And make no mistake, even cesium atomic clocks are stunningly accurate.
—
IEEE Spectrum, 24 June 2021
There was a time when atomic clocks looked like pretty hot stuff.
—
David Szondy, New Atlas, 12 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for atomic clock 
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.
Word History
First Known Use
1924, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near atomic clock
Cite this Entry
“Atomic clock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atomic%20clock. Accessed 19 Feb. 2025.
Kids Definition
atomic clock
noun
: an extremely exact clock that depends for its operation on the natural vibrations of atoms (as of cesium)
More from Merriam-Webster on atomic clock
Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for atomic clock
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about atomic clock
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share