Thermodynamic
/ˌθɜːrmoʊdaɪˈnæmɪk/noun
Relating to the relationships between heat, energy, work, and temperature.
Did you know?The term emerged in the nineteenth century as scientists formalized the laws of heat and energy—principles now used to describe everything from engines to stars.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*gʷher-
“To heat or become warm; the ancient root behind the heat-related element thermo-.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
thermós
“Hot or warm.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
dýnamis
“Power, capability, or force.”
17th Century
New Latin
thermodynamica
“A developing scientific concept concerning the mechanical effects of heat.”
19th Century
English
thermodynamics
“The scientific study of heat, energy, work, and their transformations.”
19th Century
English
thermodynamic
“Relating to thermodynamics.”