potential energy

American  

[puh-ten-shuhl en-er-jee] / pəˈtɛn ʃəl ˈɛn ər dʒi /

noun

Physics.

1. the energy of a body or a system with respect to the position of the body or the arrangement of the particles of the system.

---

potential energy British  

noun

1.  Ep.   V.   U.   φ.   PE.  the energy of a body or system as a result of its position in an electric, magnetic, or gravitational field. It is measured in joules (SI units), electronvolts, ergs, etc

---

potential energy Scientific  

1. The energy possessed by a body as a result of its position or condition rather than its motion. A raised weight, coiled spring, or charged battery has potential energy.

2. Compare kinetic energy

---

potential energy Cultural  

1. The energy an object has because of its position, rather than its motion. An object held in a person's hand has potential energy, which turns to kinetic energy — the energy of motion — when the person lets it go, and it drops to the ground.

---

Etymology

Origin of potential energy

First recorded in 1850–55

Compare meaning

How does potential-energy compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• kinetic energy vs. potential energy
• kinetic vs. potential energy

Example Sentences

He noted that Westwood this year has already looked at potential energy continuation funds with assets totaling $800 million.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 14, 2026

Hydrogen has been touted as a potential energy game-changer that could decarbonise industry and heavy transport.

From Barron's • Nov. 3, 2025

North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, rumoured as a potential energy secretary, was there on election night.

From BBC • Nov. 10, 2024

“Kind of under the assumption of how do we maximize potential energy creation while minimizing room for error.”

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 4, 2024

When the potential energy in the fault becomes greater than the force, called friction, that holds the plates together, the top plate breaks free and springs upward.

From "Meltdown" by Deirdre Langeland