physicist

noun

phys·​i·​cist ˈfi-zə-sist How to pronounce physicist (audio)
ˈfiz-sist
1
: a specialist in physics
2
archaic : a person skilled in natural science

Examples of physicist 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.
In counting geoneutrinos, physicists can get a direct measure of Earth’s vital heat-producing elements. — James Dinneen, Quanta Magazine, 7 Aug. 2026 Although antineutrinos rarely interact with matter, physicists can identify them through a characteristic double-light signal that distinguishes them from background radiation. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 4 Aug. 2026 In summary, the Big Mysteries Survey suggests that physicists are more divided on many foundational questions than popular accounts often imply. — Cynthia Zarin, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026 Even before this latest surge in interest, STEM majors — like physicists and biologists — often took computer science classes to learn how to code for data-heavy research. — ABC News, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for physicist

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of physicist was in 1838

Rhymes for physicist

See All Rhymes for physicist

Browse Nearby Words

physicism
physicist
physick
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Cite this Entry

“Physicist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physicist. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

physicist

noun
phys·​i·​cist ˈfiz-(ə-)səst How to pronounce physicist (audio)
: a specialist in physics

Medical Definition

physicist

noun
phys·​i·​cist ˈfiz-(ə-)səst How to pronounce physicist (audio)
: a specialist in physics

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