absolute zero
"Absolute zero" is a fundamental concept in thermodynamics representing the lowest possible temperature where all molecular motion stops.
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Definition
C1Physics
(technical, academic)The lowest possible temperature, defined as 0 Kelvin, -273.15 degrees Celsius, or -459.67 degrees Fahrenheit, where all molecular motion ceases.
Example
- Scientists have never reached absolute zero, but they have come very close in controlled laboratory settings.
- At absolute zero, the entropy of a perfect crystal is exactly zero.
B2Slang
(informal)A person or thing considered to be of no importance.
Example
- He felt like an absolute zero after losing his job.
- In the grand scheme of things, this problem is an absolute zero.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "absolute zero":
zero-point energyabsolute constantzero inabsolute superlativeelement zero