atom laser

noun

: a device that projects a beam of atoms that have been cooled until they are in a single combined quantum state
To understand why the atom laser is causing so much excitement, it is helpful to remember that atoms—which we usually think of as solid—also have a wavelike nature.—Jim Wilson, Popular Mechanics, July 1997

Word History

First Known Use

1995, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of atom laser was in 1995

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Dictionary Entries Near atom laser

atomizer

atom laser

atom smasher

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Cite this Entry

“Atom laser.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atom%20laser. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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