high-energy

adjective

high-en·​er·​gy ˈhī-ˈe-nər-jē 

1

a

: having such speed and kinetic energy as to exhibit relativistic departure from classical laws of motion

—used especially of elementary particles whose velocity has been imparted by an accelerator

b

: of or relating to high-energy particles

2

: yielding a relatively large amount of energy when undergoing hydrolysis

Examples of high-energy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Photograph by Rachel Neville / Courtesy Parsons Dance Parsons Dance has long been known for its high-energy, high-spirited style. —Sheldon Pearce, New Yorker, 24 Apr. 2026

Latino Life delivers a showcase of Latin talent at Unlocked, and Island Wave presents a high-energy bill including Oxlade and DJ Puffy. —Leo Barraclough, Variety, 24 Apr. 2026

What follows is a wild ride through an ingenious and audacious bid for the World Cup, set against a high-energy backdrop of Mexico in the 1980s. —Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 23 Apr. 2026

This is a high-design, high-energy hotel in the heart of the neighborhood, with lively public spaces animated by music, art, and nightlife. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for high-energy

• bioenergy
• energy

Medical Definition

high-energy

adjective

: yielding a relatively large amount of energy when undergoing hydrolysis

high-energy phosphate bonds in ATP