Energy: meaning, definitions and examples

⚡️
Add to dictionary

energy

 

[ˈɛnərdʒi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

physical

The strength and vitality required for sustained physical or mental activity.

Synonyms

strength, vigor, vitality, vivacity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
energy

General term used for the capacity to do work or activities, both physically and mentally.

  • She has so much energy in the morning.
  • We need to conserve energy at home.
vigor

Indicates physical strength and good health, often used to describe someone's forcefulness or enthusiasm.

  • The athlete trained with great vigor.
  • Despite his age, he tackled problems with vigor.
vitality

Used to describe a lively or energetic quality, often indicating good health and an active lifestyle.

  • Her vitality helps her keep up with her grandchildren.
  • The garden's vitality reflected her care and attention.
vivacity

Describes someone’s lively and animated spirit, commonly used to depict a person’s bright personality.

  • Her vivacity made the party much more enjoyable.
  • He was drawn to her vivacity and carefree attitude.
strength

Refers to physical power or the ability to withstand pressure or force. It can also refer to emotional resilience.

  • He has the strength to lift that heavy box.
  • It takes a lot of strength to go through such tough times.

Examples of usage

  • She was full of energy and enthusiasm.
  • Renewable energy sources are becoming more popular.
Context #2 | Noun

physics

The property of matter and radiation which is manifest as a capacity to perform work (such as causing motion or the interaction of molecules).

Synonyms

force, kinetic energy, power.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
energy

General term used to describe the ability to do work or cause change, applicable in various fields such as physics, biology, and everyday language.

  • She has a lot of energy after a good night's sleep
  • Solar panels convert sunlight into energy
power

Used to describe the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred. Also relevant in contexts involving control, influence, or electrical energy.

  • The power of the engine determines the speed of the car
  • She has a lot of power in the company as the CEO
force

Used primarily in physics to describe an influence that can change the motion of an object. Also relevant in contexts describing strength or coercion.

  • The force of the wind was enough to knock down trees
  • He used brute force to open the stuck door
kinetic energy

A specific type of energy related to the motion of objects, often discussed in physics and engineering fields.

  • The kinetic energy of a moving car can cause significant damage in a collision
  • Scientists are studying ways to harness kinetic energy from human movement

Examples of usage

  • The energy from the sun sustains life on Earth.
  • Nuclear energy is a powerful and controversial source of energy.
Context #3 | Noun

spiritual

A spiritual force or influence believed to be present in all living things and often identified with the soul.

Synonyms

aura, spirit, vitality.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
energy

Used to describe the physical or mental strength needed to do things or the power from physical resources.

  • She has so much energy after a good night's sleep
  • Solar panels convert sunlight into energy
vitality

Refers to the state of being strong, active, and full of life, usually emphasizing physical health and dynamic energy.

  • Regular exercise can increase your vitality
  • Despite his age, he has the vitality of a young person
aura

Refers to a distinctive atmosphere or quality that seems to surround and be generated by a person, thing, or place, often in a spiritual or emotional sense.

  • He has a calming aura that makes everyone around him feel at ease
  • The ancient ruins had a mysterious aura
spirit

Commonly used in the context of a person's non-physical part or their mood, emotions, and general attitude.

  • Even though she was tired, her spirit remained high
  • The festival was full of holiday spirit

Examples of usage

  • Practicing yoga helps to balance the body's energy.
  • Positive energy can attract good things into your life.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'energy' comes from the Greek word 'energeia,' meaning 'activity' or 'operation.'
  • It was adopted into English in the 16th century, initially used in the context of philosophy and eventually in science.

Science

  • There are many forms of energy, including kinetic (movement), potential (stored), thermal (heat), and chemical (in food and fuel).
  • The Law of Conservation of Energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only change forms.
  • Photosynthesis is a process where plants convert sunlight into chemical energy, which is essential for life on Earth.

Cultural Significance

  • Various cultures associate energy with vital life force; for instance, 'Chi' in Chinese philosophy represents vital energy in the body.
  • Many wellness practices, such as yoga and meditation, are believed to help balance and enhance personal energy.

Technology

  • Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower are crucial for sustainable development and reducing pollution.
  • The technology for harnessing energy from the sun has advanced greatly, allowing for increased efficiency in solar panels.

Psychology

  • The concept of energy extends into psychology, where it often refers to a person's motivation or emotional state.
  • Research shows that higher levels of personal energy, or enthusiasm, can positively impact productivity and creativity.

Translations

Translations of the word "energy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 energia

🇮🇳 ऊर्जा

🇩🇪 Energie

🇮🇩 energi

🇺🇦 енергія

🇵🇱 energia

🇯🇵 エネルギー

🇫🇷 énergie

🇪🇸 energía

🇹🇷 enerji

🇰🇷 에너지

🇸🇦 طاقة

🇨🇿 energie

🇸🇰 energia

🇨🇳 能量

🇸🇮 energija

🇮🇸 orka

🇰🇿 энергия

🇬🇪 ენერგია

🇦🇿 enerji

🇲🇽 energía

Word Frequency Rank

With position #410, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.