picosecond

[ pee-kuh-sek-uhnd, pahy- ]

noun

1. one trillionth of a second. : ps, psec

picosecond

/ ˈpaɪkəʊ-; ˈpiːkəʊˌsɛkənd /

noun

1. a million millionth of a second; 10 ^–12second

Word History and Origins

Origin of picosecond¹

First recorded in 1965–70; pico- + second ²

Example Sentences

To improve efficacy and reduce complications from such laser treatment, an Osaka Metropolitan University-led research group has developed an index of the threshold energy density, known as fluence, and the dependent wavelength for picosecond lasers.

From Science Daily

Using a visible laser pulse to trigger the switch, they sent a strong electrical current pulse lasting just one picosecond through the material.

From Science Daily

“There’s a big hoopla over the picosecond lasers, but we outperform them hands-down,” he asserted.

From Washington Post

“This has been minimized with lasers such as the PicoWay which use picosecond wavelength laser energy to destroy tattoo pigment under the skin with minimal damage to surrounding healthy skin.”

From Fox News

Ask whether they have the newest lasers — Q-switched or picosecond lasers, Bernstein said.

From Washington Post