QUANTUM

PRONUNCIATION (KWAHN-tuhm)

MEANING: noun:
1. A quantity or amount.
2. A portion.
3. A large amount.
4. The smallest amount of something that can exist independently.

adjective:
1. Large.
2. Relating to the quantum theory.

ETYMOLOGY: From Latin quantus (how much or how great). In physics, a quantum jump or quantum leap is usually a small change, while in popular usage the term is used to mean a significant change. Earliest documented use: 1567.

_______________________________

QUANTUS - the Australian airline, which speciaizes in carrying passengers who are afraid of flying (the airline's motto is Quantus Tremor est Futuris ("There Will Be Much Fear and Trembling")

QUALTUM - the description or characteristics of something, down to the teeniest detail possible

QUINTUM - the fifth part of something