momentum
noun
mo·men·tum
mō-ˈmen-təm
mə-
plural momenta
mō-ˈmen-tə
mə-
or momentums
1
: a property (see property sense 1a) of a moving body that the body has by virtue of its mass (see mass entry 2 sense 1c) and motion and that is equal to the product of the body's mass and velocity
broadly
: a property of a moving body that determines the length of time required to bring it to rest when under the action of a constant force or moment
2
: strength or force gained by motion or by a series of events
The wagon gained momentum as it rolled down the hill.
Cite this Entry
“Momentum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/momentum. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.
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