atomic clock
noun [ C ] uk/əˌtɒm.ɪk ˈklɒk/ us/əˌtɑː.mɪk ˈklɑːk/
原子钟
a device that measures time extremely accurately using the vibrations (= fast, regular small movements) of atoms
The atomic clock is so precise it shouldn't lose or gain a second in 20 to 30 billion years. 原子钟非常精确，在200到300亿年内不会丢失或增加一秒。
His discovery of the magnetic properties of atoms gave rise to superaccurate atomic clocks. 他对原子磁性的发现催生了超精确原子钟的发明。
- More examples
- The most accurate type of timekeeping device is currently the atomic clock.
- In 1967, when the first atomic clock was installed, nobody had in mind to launch a whole bunch of global positioning satellites that have atomic clocks.
- As high-end time-keeping technologies, including atomic clocks, become cheaper, their application in sports and many other areas will grow.
- Boulder, Colorado is home of the atomic clock, the country's official time source.