Question

What was the subject ‘physics’ called in earlier times?

Answer 1

The Fundamental Science is your answer

Answer 2

Physics  (from the Ancient Greek φύσις physis meaning "nature") is the fundamental branch of science. The primary objects of study are matter and energy.

Physics is, in one sense, the oldest and most basic academic pursuit; its discoveries find applications throughout the natural sciences, since matter and energy are the basic constituents of the natural world.

Physics is also called "the fundamental science" because the subject of study of all branches of natural science like chemistry, astronomy, geology, and biology are constrained by laws of physics, similar to how chemistry is often called the central science because of its role in linking the physical sciences.