relativistic

adjective

rel·​a·​tiv·​is·​tic ˌre-lə-ti-ˈvi-stik How to pronounce relativistic (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or characterized by relativity or relativism
2
: moving at a velocity such that there is a significant change in properties (such as mass) in accordance with the theory of relativity
a relativistic electron
relativistically
ˌre-lə-ti-ˈvi-sti-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce relativistic (audio)
adverb

Examples of relativistic 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.
The stack of runaway relativistic avalanches could explain the gamma rays. — Quanta Magazine, 6 May 2026 The problem is viewing it from a special relativistic perspective. — Big Think, 1 May 2026 The plasma oscillates in the laser’s wake, and electrons get dragged along in the plasma’s path, accelerating them to relativistic speeds. — IEEE Spectrum, 4 Dec. 2025 This rapid spin can drag spacetime around the black hole, a phenomenon known as frame dragging, and may also help power the enormous relativistic jets observed in active galaxies. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for relativistic

Word History

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of relativistic was in 1886

Rhymes for relativistic

See All Rhymes for relativistic

Browse Nearby Words

relativist
relativistic
relativity
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Cite this Entry

“Relativistic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relativistic. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

relativistic

adjective
rel·​a·​tiv·​is·​tic ˌrel-ət-iv-ˈis-tik How to pronounce relativistic (audio)
: of, relating to, or characterized by relativity
relativistically
-ti-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce relativistic (audio)
adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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