ENGLISH
REFERENCE

dynamics

n.
US //daɪˈnæmɪks// UK //daɪnˈæmɪks// dy·nam·ics
  1. 1 group behavior (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the way that people in a group behave toward each other and how this changes over time.

    the forces or properties which stimulate growth, change, or development within a system or group.

    Example

    The team dynamics changed completely when the new manager arrived.

    Example

    The consultant spent a week observing the office dynamics to understand why communication between the departments had broken down so significantly.

    Usage

    Usually plural in this sense.

  2. 2 volume of sound (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Music

    how loud or quiet a piece of music or a sound is.

    the varying levels of volume of sound in a musical performance or recording.

    Example

    The pianist used soft dynamics to make the song sound very peaceful.

    Example

    The conductor urged the brass section to observe the dynamics more closely, as their fortissimo was drowning out the delicate woodwind melody.

    Usage

    Always plural in a musical context.

Show 1 more senseShow fewer
  1. 3 study of motion (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Science

    the science of how forces make objects move.

    the branch of mechanics concerned with the motion of bodies under the action of forces.

    Example

    In physics class, we studied the dynamics of a falling object.

    Example

    Advanced fluid dynamics is essential for engineers designing the aerodynamic profile of high-speed racing cars.

    Usage

    Treated as a singular noun when referring to the field of study.

Origin

From dynamic + -ics.

© 2026 English Reference