velocity

UK: vəˈlɒsəti | US: vəˈlɑːsəti

Definition

  1. n. the speed of something in a given direction

  2. n. (physics) a vector quantity representing the rate of change of position

Structure
veloc <fast, from Latin *velox*>ity <noun suffix, indicating state or quality>
Etymology

The word "velocity" traces back to the Latin velocitas, derived from velox (swift, fast). The suffix -ity was adopted via Old French -ité, transforming the adjective into a noun denoting the quality of speed. Unlike "speed" (Old English spēd), "velocity" specifically emphasizes directional motion, reflecting its scientific precision in physics.

Examples

  1. The car reached a velocity of 100 km/h on the highway.

  2. In physics, velocity includes both speed and direction.

  3. The rocket’s escape velocity allowed it to break free from Earth’s gravity.

  4. The river’s velocity increased after the heavy rainfall.

  5. Engineers calculated the wind velocity to design the bridge safely.