Dyne
/daɪn/noun
A unit of force in the centimetre–gram–second system, equal to one gram-centimetre per second squared.
Did you know?The dyne belongs to the old centimetre–gram–second system, where physical power was expressed through the Greek idea of dynamis, meaning capacity or force.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*dʰewh₂-
“To be able, be capable, or have power; a reconstructed root behind Greek words for strength and ability.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
δύναμαι (dýnamai)
“I am able; I have the power or capacity to do something.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
δύναμις (dýnamis)
“Power, ability, strength, or capacity.”
19th Century
English
dyne
“A scientific unit of force, coined from Greek dýnamis during the development of the centimetre–gram–second measurement system.”
Modern English
English
dyne
“A mostly historical or specialized unit of force, superseded in general use by the newton.”