high-energy

adjective

high-en·​er·​gy ˈhī-ˈe-nər-jē How to pronounce high-energy (audio)
1
a
: having such speed and kinetic energy as to exhibit relativistic departure from classical laws of motion
used especially of elementary particles whose velocity has been imparted by an accelerator
b
: of or relating to high-energy particles
2
: yielding a relatively large amount of energy when undergoing hydrolysis

Examples of high-energy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The high-energy duo reportedly made an appearance on the show to talk about their work, more specifically, a women's vocational retreat. Taylor Ardrey, USA Today, 29 May 2025 X-ray emission is high-energy electromagnetic radiation, which Earth’s atmosphere blocks. Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025 May 28, 2025 What's different today is that the Israeli defense forces used a high-energy laser capable of locking onto and destroying a drone by, in at least one instance, burning off the wings. David Szondy, New Atlas, 28 May 2025 Australian twin brothers Archie and Miles Shephard have become internet stars for their high-energy and comedically nuanced interpretations of some of the most dramatic moments in sports. Don Riddell, CNN Money, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for high-energy

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of high-energy was in 1934

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Cite this Entry

“High-energy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/high-energy. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.

Medical Definition

high-energy

adjective
: yielding a relatively large amount of energy when undergoing hydrolysis
high-energy phosphate bonds in ATP
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