ENGLISH
REFERENCE

planck

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈpɫæŋk// planck

n. a name used for very small measurements in physics. It refers to the smallest possible scales of energy, time, and space in the universe.

n. Refers to the fundamental physical constants and scales derived by Max Planck, specifically the Planck constant (h). Often used as a modifier to describe the smallest meaningful units of measurement in quantum mechanics, such as Planck length or Planck time.


SIMPLE

Scientists study the universe at the Planck scale.

CONTEXTUAL

In quantum physics, the Planck constant relates the energy of a photon to its frequency.

COMPLEX

Theoretical physicists often encounter significant mathematical hurdles when attempting to reconcile general relativity with the extreme conditions found at the Planck length.

Origin

Borrowed from German Planck.

Usage

Usually functions as a proper noun or a modifier in scientific compound terms; when used as a unit of measurement, it is countable.

© 2026 English Reference