Word
physics
US/ˈfɪzɪks/
UK/fˈɪzɪks/
Definitions
01the branch of science
A2 · Elementary Uncountable noun Science
n. the study of how the physical world works, covering energy, heat, light, and motion.
n. the branch of science that deals with the nature and properties of matter and energy. Uncountable in this sense; treated as a singular noun.
“In our physics class today, we learned about how gravity keeps the planets in orbit.”
“Theoretical physics often relies on complex mathematical models to predict the behavior of subatomic particles before they are observed in experiments.”
Pitfall
Physics 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.
Synonyms
02physical properties of a system
B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun Science Technical
n. the way physical laws affect a specific object or situation.
n. the physical properties, forces, or phenomena of a specific system or process.
“The physics of a bicycle are simple but very effective for moving fast.”
“Engineers must carefully consider the physics of the bridge to ensure it can withstand high winds and heavy traffic loads.”
Etymology
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.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
Related words
Grammar
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- A2 · ElementaryOxford
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/physics