entropy
Entropy (noun) means In physics, a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system. Example: “The universe's entropy is always increasing, according to the second law of thermodynamics.”
How to use entropy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA scientific measure of disorder — and, loosely, the natural drift of anything toward chaos over time.
Word forms
entropies plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The universe's _____ is always increasing, according to the second law of thermodynamics.
Etymology
Coined in 1865 by physicist Rudolf Clausius from Greek en- ("in") and trope ("transformation"), modeled on the word "energy."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for entropy
See all rhymes for entropy →Frequently asked questions
What does “entropy” mean?
The word “entropy” means in physics, a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system. In plain terms, a scientific measure of disorder — and, loosely, the natural drift of anything toward chaos over time.
How do you pronounce “entropy”?
“Entropy” is pronounced EHNT-ruh-pee (/ˈɛntɹəpi/ in IPA).
How do you use “entropy” in a sentence?
Here is “entropy” used in a sentence: “The universe's entropy is always increasing, according to the second law of thermodynamics.”
What is another word for “entropy”?
Words with a similar meaning to “entropy” include anergy, bound entropy and disgregation.
What is the opposite of “entropy”?
The opposite of “entropy” — its antonyms — are aggregation, exergy, free entropy, negentropy and syntropy.
What part of speech is “entropy”?
“Entropy” is a noun.
Where does the word “entropy” come from?
The word “entropy” dates back to around 1865 and comes from Greek. Coined in 1865 by physicist Rudolf Clausius from Greek en- ("in") and trope ("transformation"), modeled on the word "energy.".
Is “entropy” a common word?
“Entropy” is an uncommon word in modern English.