high-energy

adjective

high-en·​er·​gy ˈhī-ˈe-nər-jē How to pronounce high-energy (audio)
1
a
: having such speed and kinetic energy as to exhibit relativistic departure from classical laws of motion
used especially of elementary particles whose velocity has been imparted by an accelerator
b
: of or relating to high-energy particles
2
: yielding a relatively large amount of energy when undergoing hydrolysis

Examples of high-energy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There’s a lot of upbeat, high-energy dancing that’s very entertaining and accessible. Lisa Vernon Sparks, Charlotte Observer, 24 Apr. 2025 Norris still retains a slight edge on pure speed, but his high-energy driving style makes his McLaren too edgy at key times, and mistakes follow too often. Alex Kalinauckas, New York Times, 24 Apr. 2025 Instead, align high-leverage work with high-energy windows. Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025 The event may have taken place at the singular location of Little Caesars Arena, but the eager attendees who traveled from every corner of the city, coupled with the high-energy performances, set the scene for something bigger — a celebratory night for music lovers and Detroit. Kenneth Williams, Essence, 23 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for high-energy

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of high-energy was in 1934

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Cite this Entry

“High-energy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/high-energy. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

Medical Definition

high-energy

adjective
: yielding a relatively large amount of energy when undergoing hydrolysis
high-energy phosphate bonds in ATP
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