Hamiltonian

[ ham-uhl-toh-nee-uhn ]

adjective

1. pertaining to or advocating Hamiltonianism.

noun

1. a supporter of Alexander Hamilton or Hamiltonianism.

Hamiltonian

/ ˌhæməlˈtəʊnɪən /

noun

1. a mathematical function of the coordinates and momenta of a system of particles used to express their equations of motion
2. a mathematical operator that generates such a function H

adjective

1. denoting or relating to Sir William Rowan Hamilton, or to the theory of mechanics or mathematical operator devised by him

Hamiltonian

/ hăm′əl-tō′nē-ən /

1. A mathematical function or operator that can be used to describe the state of a physical system. In classical mechanics, the Hamiltonian is a function of coordinates and momenta of bodies in the system, treated as independent variables. It is equal to the sum of the kinetic and potential energies of the system, and can be used to derive the equations of motion for the system. In quantum mechanics, the Hamiltonian is an operator corresponding to the total energy of the system. The Hamiltonian is named after Irish mathematician William Rowan Hamilton (1805–1865).

Word History and Origins

Origin of Hamiltonian¹

An Americanism dating back to 1790–1800; Hamilton + -ian

Example Sentences

Morris was a Hamiltonian before Hamilton, a champion of a strong Congress and a strong president.

From Slate

Le also showed how this method can be used in various applications, including quantum metrology with single and multiple magnetic fields and Hamiltonian tomography applied to intricate many-body systems.

From Science Daily

That limit "doesn't force some kind of Hamiltonian thoughtfulness around how we allocate resources in society. It is just a gun to the head."

From Reuters

Her Hamiltonian Artists show simulates 360-degree vision by placing pictures up, down and around: stuck to the floor, bent from floor to wall, or mounted above the average visitor’s eye line.

From Washington Post

Twigs, plaster and road signs are among the mundane things repurposed or reimagined in “New. Now. 23,” Hamiltonian Artists’ showcase of its latest quintet of artistic fellows.

From Washington Post