Physics
/ˈfɪz.ɪks/noun
The branch of science concerned with the nature and properties of matter and energy.
Did you know?In ancient times, physics was intertwined with alchemy and the mystical study of the cosmos, blurring the lines between science and magic.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
φυσική (physikḗ)
“The study of nature, encompassing all natural phenomena.”
14th Century
Latin
physica
“The natural sciences, derived from the Greek term.”
16th Century
Latin
physica
“The branch of natural philosophy dealing with the physical world.”
17th Century
English
physics
“Adoption of the term to refer specifically to the study of matter and energy.”
Modern English
English
physics
“The scientific study of matter, energy, and their interactions.”
Explore more surprising origins