Momentum \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.