In momentum space, its "operator" in quantum mechanics is equal to momentum squared divided by mass, and rotation around an axis, vibration, or motion along a path all create this form of energy.  
Along with the scientific idea of "work," the name for this quantity was introduced with its present meaning by Coriolis in an 1829 book. If the reference frame is fixed with respect to the center of mass of the colliding bodies in an inelastic collision, this quantity appears to vanish totally.  In momentum space, its "operator" in quantum mechanics is equal to momentum squared divided by mass, and rotation around an axis, vibration, or motion along a path all create this form of energy.  FTP, name this quantity that is represented non-relativistically as _mv2.
Along with the scientific idea of "work," the name for this quantity was introduced with its present meaning by Coriolis in an 1829 book.
kinetic energy