momentum
UK: mə(ʊ)ˈmɛntəm | US: moʊˈmɛntəm
n. the quantity of motion of a moving body, measured as a product of its mass and velocity
n. the impetus gained by a moving object
n. figurative: the driving force or strength behind continued progress
The word momentum originates from Latin, where momentum initially referred to physical motion or force. Over time, it evolved to describe both the measurable physics concept (mass × velocity) and metaphorical "force" in contexts like social change. The root movere ("to move") is shared with words like mobile and motion, emphasizing dynamic action.
The car's momentum carried it forward even after the brakes were applied.
The team gained momentum after scoring their first goal.
In physics, momentum is conserved in isolated systems.
The political campaign lost momentum due to lack of public support.
She used the momentum of the swing to jump higher.