dark energy

noun

: a hypothetical form of energy that produces a force that opposes gravity and is thought to be the cause of the accelerating expansion of the universe

Examples of dark energy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Researchers hope the effort may yield clues about dark matter as well as an equally puzzling force known as dark energy. — ABC News, 30 June 2026 Understanding dark matter and dark energy can give scientists major clues on how the universe evolved after the Big Bang. — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 29 June 2026 Euclid launched in 2023 on a mission to chart one-third of the sky in the hopes of shedding light on the enduring mysteries of dark matter and dark energy. — CBS News, 24 June 2026 Euclid is designed to study dark energy, the mysterious force that drives the accelerating expansion of the universe, by studying distant galaxies. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for dark energy

Word History

First Known Use

1998, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dark energy was in 1998

Rhymes for dark energy

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Browse Nearby Words

darkener
dark energy
darken someone's door/doors
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Cite this Entry

“Dark energy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dark%20energy. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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