qubit

noun

qu·bit ˈkyü-bət

plural qubits

: a unit of computing information that is represented by a state of an atom or elementary particle (such as the spin) and can store multiple values at once due to the principles of quantum mechanics

And the most basic truth of quantum mechanics dictates that you cannot measure a qubit without destroying the superposition. The register that said 1 and 0 will randomly collapse into 1 or 0.—

George Johnson

compare bit entry 3 sense 1

Examples of qubit 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.

Another cornerstone of quantum mechanics is entanglement, where qubits become interconnected. —

Jason Snyder, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025 For reference, Google’s processors are now on the scale of about 100 physical qubits. —

Kevin Williams, CNBC, 22 Dec. 2024 And quantum theory’s complexities could also provide a new basis for cryptography, should current cryptography crumble under qubits. —

Bill Andrews, Quanta Magazine, 19 Dec. 2024 Quantum systems are prone to errors because qubits are fragile and can be disturbed by even the smallest environmental changes. —

Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for qubit

Word History

Etymology

qu- (in quantum entry 2) + bit entry 4, probably formed with punning allusion to cubit

Note: According to the American physicist Benjamin Schumacher, in the acknowledgements to a paper ("Quantum coding," Physical Review A, vol. 51, issue 4 [April, 1995], p. 2747), "The term 'qubit' was coined in jest during one of the author's many intriguing and valuable conversations with W. K. Wootters, and became the initial impetus for this work."

First Known Use

1994, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of qubit was in 1994

See more words from the same year