general relativity

noun

: relativity sense 3b

Examples of general relativity in a Sentence

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Some of the most cataclysmic events in the cosmos, such as mergers of supermassive black holes, should produce a very specific gravitational wave signature, according to general relativity. — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 7 Oct. 2026 By exploiting this feature of general relativity, warp drives could indeed work, at least in theory. — Micah Hanks, Space.com, 23 Sep. 2026 According to Einstein’s theory of general relativity, an object’s mass curves the space around it. — Thomas Fauchez, The Conversation, 14 Sep. 2026 By more precisely measuring this consequence of general relativity, this study also serves to constrain alternate theories that call Einstein’s conclusions into question. — Mary Randolph, Scientific American, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for general relativity

Word History

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of general relativity was in 1916

Rhymes for general relativity

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Browse Nearby Words

general quarters
general relativity
general release
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Cite this Entry

“General relativity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/general%20relativity. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

general relativity

noun
: relativity sense 2b

More from Merriam-Webster on general relativity

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about general relativity

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