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
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While the mission was designed with dark energy, dark matter, and exoplanets in mind, Roman’s unprecedented observational capability will offer practically limitless opportunities for astronomers to explore all kinds of cosmic topics. Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 Apr. 2026 In its time orbiting Earth, Hubble has shaped our understanding of the universe by observing the atmospheric composition of planets around other stars and even discovering dark energy – a mysterious force that causes the universe to expand. Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 27 Apr. 2026 The blue band represents the predictions from a dark matter-and-dark energy dominated Universe that follows the rules of Einstein’s general relativity, while the yellow band represents the predictions from a dark matter-free Universe that follows the rules of MOND. Big Think, 21 Apr. 2026 The dark and faint universe Despite years upon years of searching for an answer, scientists still don't know what exactly dark matter and dark energy are. Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 21 Apr. 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

Cite this Entry

“Dark energy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dark%20energy. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

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