particle physics

noun

: a branch of physics dealing with the constitution, properties, and interactions of elementary particles especially as revealed in experiments using particle accelerators

called also high-energy physics

particle physicist noun

Examples of particle physics 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.

Their machine could pave the way for a new generation of compact accelerators that could help study the behavior of matter under ultra-high electric fields, relevant to both particle physics and astrophysics. —

The Physics Arxiv Blog, Discover Magazine, 14 Feb. 2025 If researchers can figure those out, the new information may help build a more complete standard model of particle physics, as well as expand our knowledge of the inner workings of planets, stars, and supernovas. —

Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 17 Oct. 2024 As a result, drug discovery, neuroscience, renewable-energy research, and particle physics are fundamentally changing. —

Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 8 Oct. 2024 The Higgs field plays a critical role in our modern theory of particle physics, known as the Standard Model. —

Paul M. Sutter, Discover Magazine, 17 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for particle physics

Word History

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of particle physics was in 1946

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Particle physics.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/particle%20physics. Accessed 22 Feb. 2025.

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