magnetic moment

noun

: a vector quantity that is a measure of the torque exerted on a magnetic system (such as a bar magnet or dipole) when placed in a magnetic field and that for a magnet is the product of the distance between its poles and the strength of either pole

Examples of magnetic moment in a Sentence

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Choose to indulge in magnetic moments to enjoy creative wins. — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 28 Jan. 2026 When many electrons with identical spins are close together, their magnetic moments can align and join forces to form a larger magnetic field. — IEEE Spectrum, 12 Jan. 2021 The internal magnetic moments align, releasing heat. — Etiido Uko march 23, New Atlas, 23 Mar. 2026 Their work measures the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon — a heavy, unstable cousin of the electron — with extraordinary precision, probing for cracks in the Standard Model that could reveal new particles or forces. — Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 26 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for magnetic moment

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of magnetic moment was in 1865

Rhymes for magnetic moment

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Browse Nearby Words

magnetic mirror
magnetic moment
magnetic needle
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Cite this Entry

“Magnetic moment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/magnetic%20moment. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

magnetic moment

noun
magnetic mo·​ment -ˈmō-mənt How to pronounce magnetic moment (audio)
: a vector quantity that is a measure of the torque exerted on a magnetic system (as a bar magnet or dipole) when placed in a magnetic field and that for a magnet is the product of the distance between its poles and the strength of either pole

More from Merriam-Webster on magnetic moment

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about magnetic moment

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