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Momentum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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momentum

[mษ™หˆmษ›ntษ™m ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

physics

The quantity of motion of a moving body, measured as a product of its mass and velocity.

Synonyms

drive, force, impetus.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
momentum

Used to describe the ongoing progress or speed of something moving or developing. Often used in physics or to describe things that are successfully continuing without losing pace.

  • The team gained momentum after winning their first match
  • The car's momentum carried it up the hill
impetus

Describes the stimulus or encouragement that causes something to happen or develop more quickly. Commonly used in business, project developments, or changes.

  • The new policy provided fresh impetus to the reform process
  • His injury gave him the impetus to adopt a healthier lifestyle
drive

Refers to someone's strong motivation or determination to achieve something. Commonly used in personal and professional contexts to describe ambition and persistence.

  • Her drive to succeed made her stay late at the office every night
  • He has a strong drive to become the best in his field
force

Often used to describe a physical strength or power exerted. Can also refer to a strong influence or impact on people or situations. Might have a slightly negative connotation when used in the latter sense.

  • The force of the explosion shattered the windows
  • She became a force to be reckoned with in the industry

Examples of usage

  • The car gained momentum as it rolled down the hill.
  • The team's momentum was unstoppable as they scored goal after goal.
Context #2 | Noun

general

The strength or force that allows something to continue or to grow stronger or faster as time passes.

Synonyms

impetus, progress, thrust.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
momentum

Used to describe the force or speed of movement in physical activities or metaphorical scenarios, like the growing success of a project or campaign.

  • The team gained momentum after scoring the first goal.
  • The tech startup is building momentum in the industry.
progress

Commonly used to signify advancement or development in projects, personal goals, or learning processes.

  • We have made significant progress in our research.
  • She is showing steady progress in her piano lessons.
impetus

Refers to the driving force behind an action or movement, often used in a more formal context to describe what initiates or stimulates progress or activity.

  • The new regulations provided fresh impetus to the renewable energy sector.
  • His speech gave the team the impetus they needed to succeed.
thrust

Often used to describe a powerful push or driving force, both in physical and metaphorical terms, but it can have a bit more intensity compared to 'impetus' or 'momentum'.

  • The rocket's thrust propelled it into space.
  • He felt the thrust of the argument during the debate.

Examples of usage

  • The company's new product gained momentum in the market.
  • We need to keep the momentum going to achieve our goals.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Physics

  • In physics, momentum is calculated by multiplying an object's mass by its velocity, highlighting how heavier and faster objects have more momentum.
  • There are two types of momentum: linear (straight line) and angular (circular), which helps in various applications from vehicles to spinning tops.
  • The law of conservation of momentum states that in a closed system, total momentum remains constant unless acted upon by an outside force.

Sports

  • In sports, momentum refers to the emotional and psychological push a team or player feels after a series of successes, making them perform better.
  • Many athletes talk about 'catching momentum' during games, which often leads to shifts in performance and outcomes.
  • Coaches often strategize to build or stop the momentum of opposing teams, understanding its crucial role in competition.

Cultural References

  • The concept of momentum is often referenced in self-help and motivational speaking, suggesting that starting any endeavor creates a forward motion.
  • In popular culture, songs and films often explore themes of maintaining momentum in relationships or careers, illustrating its importance in life.

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, momentum can be associated with functions that describe movement, such as derivatives that indicate changes in position over time.
  • The idea of momentum is used in calculus to solve problems related to motion, illustrating the link between various fields of study.

Origin of 'momentum'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'momentum,' meaning 'movement' or 'force,' which reflects its connection to motion.
  • It was first used in English in the early 19th century to describe physical movement in terms of physics.
  • Momentum is now a key term in both physics and various disciplines, showcasing its broad relevance.

The word 'momentum' originated from the Latin word 'momentum', meaning 'movement'. In physics, momentum is a fundamental concept used to describe the motion of objects. The modern understanding of momentum was developed by Sir Isaac Newton in his laws of motion. Over time, the term has been adopted in various fields to describe the force or strength behind a particular action or development.

See also: momentarily, momentary, momentous, moments.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,298 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.