Momentum

/məˈmɛn.təm/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The quantity of motion of a moving body, measured as a product of its mass and velocity.
The car gained momentum as it raced down the hill.
The impetus gained by a moving object.
The rocket had enough momentum to leave the Earth's atmosphere.
The driving force gained by the development of a process or course of events.
The project gained momentum after securing the necessary funding.
A force that increases or strengthens progress in a particular direction or activity.
The new policies provided significant momentum for economic growth.

Etymology

Latin, from 'momentum', meaning 'a movement, motion'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

momentum shift:
A significant change in the direction or flow of a process.
gaining momentum:
Increasing in speed or force.
lose momentum:
To slow down or decrease in energy or strength.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

To have a lot of energy or enthusiasm about a project.
We've got some serious momentum going into the final phase of the project.
To be riding a wave of success or progress.
Once we started getting customers, a momentum built that was hard to stop.