physical science

noun

: any of the natural sciences (such as physics, chemistry, and astronomy) that deal primarily with nonliving materials
physical scientist noun

Examples of physical science 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 entrance of the Gaithersburg Campus of the National Institute of Standards and Technology ( NIST ), a physical sciences lab complex under the US Department of Commerce. — Louise Matsakis, WIRED, 25 Mar. 2025 Although biomedical science is often in the news, the problems extend to the physical sciences, as evidenced by retracted papers on superconductivity. — Ferric C. Fang, Baltimore Sun, 23 Mar. 2025 Research is conducted across several disciplines, including biology, earth sciences, human health and physical science, the federal space agency said. — Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 22 Feb. 2025 The Biden administration made a push for climate and cancer research, for instance, and George W. Bush's administration prioritized energy research and the physical sciences. — Jonathan Lambert, NPR, 7 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for physical science

Word History

First Known Use

1705, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of physical science was in 1705

Rhymes for physical science

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Browse Nearby Words

physical punishment
physical science
physical therapist
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Cite this Entry

“Physical science.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physical%20science. Accessed 10 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

physical science

noun
: any of the natural sciences (as physics, geology, and astronomy) that deal primarily with nonliving materials

Medical Definition

physical science

noun
: any of the natural sciences (as physics, chemistry, and astronomy) that deal primarily with nonliving materials
physical scientist noun

More from Merriam-Webster on physical science

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about physical science

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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