Momentum

Definition

Momentum is the quantity of motion an object has, often described as the product of its mass and velocity. In broader terms, it can also refer to the force or speed of movement gained by a process or course of events.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /moʊˈmɛntəm/
• Respelling: moh-MEN-tuhm (with "moh" as in "motel," "MEN" as in "men," and "tuhm" as in "atom")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /məˈmɛntəm/
• Respelling: muh-MEN-tuhm (with "muh" as in "sofa," "MEN" as in "men," and "tuhm" as in "atom")

In both dialects, "momentum" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "MEN." The pronunciation is similar across both American and British English, with a slight difference in the vowel sound of the first syllable: "moh-MEN-tuhm" in American English and "muh-MEN-tuhm" in British English.

Etymology

The term "momentum" has its origins in the Latin word "movimentum", which is derived from "movēre", meaning "to move". Over time, its use evolved to describe both physical and figurative motion or progression.

Derivatives

• Momentous
• Moment
• Momentarily
• Momentariness
• Momenta (plural form)

Synonyms

• Impetus
• Drive
• Force

Antonyms

• Stagnation
• Standstill
• Inertia

Usage

"Momentum" is commonly used in physics to describe the motion of an object, but it's also widely used in everyday language to describe the progression of events, ideas, or movements.

• The campaign gained momentum after the endorsement from the celebrity.
• The bowling ball's momentum was evident as it crashed into the pins.
• We must maintain our momentum if we wish to finish this project on time.

Related Terms

• Velocity
• Force
• Mass
• Inertia
• Impulse

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Physical Motion or Movement: In physics, the quantity of motion of a moving body, measured as a product of its mass and velocity.‍
• Example: "The momentum of the car increased as it sped down the hill."

• Force or Speed of Movement: The impetus and driving force gained by the development of a process or course of events.‍
• Example: "The campaign gained momentum after the candidate's successful debate performance."