angular momentum

noun

: a vector quantity that is a measure of the rotational momentum of a rotating body or system, that is equal in classical physics to the product of the angular velocity of the body or system and its moment of inertia with respect to the rotation axis, and that is directed along the rotation axis

Examples of angular momentum 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.
Today, its angular momentum, or spin, is less than that of the disk. — Keith Cooper, Space.com, 17 Aug. 2026 This theory explains that a sprinkler’s rotation is driven by the angular momentum of its internal fluid flows. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 13 July 2026 The resulting conserved quantity is angular momentum. — Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 23 June 2026 In both cases, the presence of large temperature differences over a short distance and angular momentum are important. — Marshall Shepherd, Forbes.com, 15 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for angular momentum

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of angular momentum was in 1817

Rhymes for angular momentum

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Browse Nearby Words

angular milling
angular momentum
angular motion
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Cite this Entry

“Angular momentum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/angular%20momentum. Accessed 24 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on angular momentum

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about angular momentum

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