Dictionary entry

Momentum

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Mo‐men″tum (?), n.; pl. L. Momenta (#), F. Momentums (#). [L. See Moment.] 1. (Mech.) The quantity of motion in a moving body, being always proportioned to the quantity of matter multiplied into the velocity; impetus.

2. Essential element, or constituent element.

I shall state the several momenta of the distinction in separate propositions. Sir W. Hamilton.