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.

Synonyms

• boost
• encouragement
• goad
• impetus
• impulse
• incentive
• incitation
• incitement
• instigation
• motivation
• provocation
• spur
• stimulant
• stimulus
• yeast

Examples of momentum in a Sentence

The company has had a successful year and hopes to maintain its momentum by introducing new products.

The movie loses momentum toward the end.

Recent Examples on the Web

Amongst the critics, there was the sense that this could be the moment early season momentum for Kompany’s team was checked. —Zak Garner-Purkis, Forbes, 29 Sep. 2024

Even though Low Budget’s singles didn’t do big business on the charts, the Kinks had steadily been building momentum since signing to Arista, and had returned to prominence on AOR radio and the touring circuit. —Al Shipley, SPIN, 29 Sep. 2024

While hair tools comprise the majority of the brand’s business — more than 90 percent — the foray also offers the brand a chance to build momentum for its hair care offerings. —Noor Lobad, WWD, 29 Sep. 2024

Gipson’s relationship with the Quintos spearheaded momentum for the passage of Assembly bills 360, 490 and 1608. —Rick Hurd, The Mercury News, 28 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, movement

First Known Use

1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing momentum

• angular momentum
• gather/gain momentum
• gather momentum/strength
• lose momentum
• pick up speed/momentum

Kids Definition

momentum

noun

mo·​men·​tum mō-ˈment-əm 

plural momenta -ˈment-ə  or momentums

1

: the characteristic of a moving body that is caused by its mass and its motion

2

: impetus sense 1

Medical Definition

momentum

noun

mo·​men·​tum mō-ˈment-əm, mə-ˈment- 

plural momenta -ˈment-ə  or momentums

: a property of a moving body that the body has by virtue of its mass 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