Meaning & Definition of word "Acceleration"

Acceleration

/əkˌsɛl.əˈreɪ.ʃən/

noun:

  • 1. The process of increasing speed or momentum.
    • Example: The car's acceleration was impressive, allowing it to reach impressive speeds in mere seconds.
  • 2. The rate of change of velocity per unit of time.
    • Example: In physics, acceleration is defined as the change in velocity divided by the time taken for that change.
  • 3. An increase in the rate or amount of something.
    • Example: The acceleration of the project timeline required additional resources to meet the new deadlines.

Etymology

From Latin acceleratio, from accelerare, meaning 'to hasten'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

acceleration due to gravity:

The rate of increase in velocity of an object in free fall, approximately 9.81 m/s² on Earth.

negative acceleration:

A decrease in speed; deceleration.

net acceleration:

The overall change in velocity after considering all forces acting on an object.

Related Words

deceleration:

The reduction of speed or the rate of negative acceleration.

velocity:

The speed of something in a given direction.

force:

An influence that can change the motion of an object.

Slang Meanings of acceleration

Meaning: Gotta accelerate.

Example Sentence: When the light turns green, it's time to accelerate!

Meaning: Hit the gas.

Example Sentence: As soon as you merge onto the highway, hit the gas for that quick acceleration.