relativity
relativity Lexical Profile
relativity Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Either of two fundamental physical theories developed by Albert Einstein—special relativity and general relativity—which state that the laws of physics are the same for all observers and that space and time are interwoven into a single continuum affected by motion and gravity.
"Einstein's theory of general relativity accurately predicted how massive celestial bodies bend the path of starlight."
The quality or state of being dependent on, determined by, or considered in relation to something else rather than being absolute or independent.
"Traveling across diverse cultures quickly teaches you the relativity of social norms and polite manners."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'relativity' (the physical theory of space-time or the general state of being dependent on something else) with 'relativism' (the philosophical doctrine that knowledge, truth, and morality exist only in relation to culture or historical context).
• Rhymes for relativity
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the mid-19th century from the adjective 'relative' and the suffix '-ity', ultimately tracing back to the Late Latin 'relativus' ('having reference or relation'). Its modern scientific sense was popularized in the early 20th century through translations of Albert Einstein's German term 'Relativitätstheorie'.