physics
- 01 A2 Elementary
the study of how the physical world works, covering energy, heat, light, and motion.
the branch of science that deals with the nature and properties of matter and energy. Uncountable in this sense; treated as a singular noun.
Simple“In our physics class today, we learned about how gravity keeps the planets in orbit.”
In context“Theoretical physics often relies on complex mathematical models to predict the behavior of subatomic particles before they are observed in experiments.”
PitfallPhysics are my favorite subject. Physics is my favorite subject.Even though 'physics' ends in 's', it is a singular noun when referring to the subject of study.
Synonymsnatural science - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
the way physical laws affect a specific object or situation.
the physical properties, forces, or phenomena of a specific system or process.
Simple“The physics of a bicycle are simple but very effective for moving fast.”
In context“Engineers must carefully consider the physics of the bridge to ensure it can withstand high winds and heavy traffic loads.”
1580s; from physic (see also -ics), from Middle English phisik, from Old French fisike (“natural science, art of healing”), from Latin physica (“study of nature”), from Ancient Greek φυσική (phusikḗ), feminine singular of φυσικός (phusikós, “natural; physical”), from Ancient Greek φύσις (phúsis, “origin; nature, property”), from Ancient Greek φύω (phúō, “produce; bear; grow”), ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *bʰuH- (“to appear, become, rise up”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.