neutron

noun

neu·​tron ˈnü-ˌträn How to pronounce neutron (audio)
ˈnyü-
: an uncharged elementary particle that has a mass nearly equal to that of the proton and is present in all known atomic nuclei except the hydrogen nucleus
neutronic
nü-ˈträ-nik How to pronounce neutron (audio)
nyü-
adjective

Examples of neutron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Next, the team conducted neutron and X-ray diffraction measurements to study how ice VII becomes plastic ice VII. — Michael Irving, New Atlas, 20 Feb. 2025 That tells researchers that dark matter can't be made of atoms like everyday matter is, because the particles that comprise atoms — electrons, protons, and neutrons — do interact with light. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 28 Feb. 2025 Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons. — Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 11 Jan. 2025 Quarks are the particles in the standard model of particle physics that bind together and comprise particles like protons and neutrons. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 21 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for neutron

Word History

Etymology

probably from neutral

First Known Use

1921, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of neutron was in 1921

Phrases Containing neutron

Rhymes for neutron

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Cite this Entry

“Neutron.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neutron. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

neutron

noun
neu·​tron ˈn(y)ü-ˌträn How to pronounce neutron (audio)
: an uncharged atomic particle that has a mass nearly equal to that of the proton and is present in all known atomic nuclei except the hydrogen nucleus

Medical Definition

neutron

noun
neu·​tron ˈn(y)ü-ˌträn How to pronounce neutron (audio)
: an uncharged elementary particle that has a mass nearly equal to that of the proton and is present in all known atomic nuclei except the hydrogen nucleus

More from Merriam-Webster on neutron

Nglish: Translation of neutron for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about neutron

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