Definition of QUANTUM (original) (raw)

: any of the very small increments or parcels into which many forms of energy are subdivided

: any of the small subdivisions of a quantized physical magnitude (such as magnetic moment)

Examples of quantum in a Sentence

Noun

the sum of human knowledge is now so immense that even a highly educated person can hope to absorb only a tiny quantum of it

Recent Examples on the Web

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The research highlights how combining quantum processors with classical computing resources may define the next phase of high-performance computing, offering a path toward solving problems that are currently out of reach. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 6 May 2026 Ranade will advance the chipmaker’s technology strategy, lead special projects, and lead the development of emerging areas, including quantum computing. —John Kell, Fortune, 6 May 2026

Further out on Pichai’s horizon are goals like bringing humanoid robots into every home; launching data centers into space; and accelerating quantum computing, which could lead to breakthroughs in cancer treatment and climate modeling. —Andrew R. Chow, Time, 6 May 2026 One key step involved refining how the system identifies which parts of a molecule need detailed quantum treatment, reducing the overall computational cost. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 6 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for quantum

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Latin, neuter of quantus how much

First Known Use

Noun

1567, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Adjective

1924, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler

The first known use of quantum was in 1567