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 adjective

Examples of neutron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The large amount of U-238 in the material would produce many neutrons, which would likely result in a nuclear chain reaction occurring too soon. IEEE Spectrum, 17 June 2024 The findings hint that nuclei with as many as 260 protons and neutrons might form via the r-process. Stephanie Pappas, Scientific American, 14 May 2024 Occasionally, heavy atomic nuclei spontaneously—and for no good reason—transform themselves, with either a neutron converting into a proton or vice-versa. Paul Sutter, Ars Technica, 11 June 2024 In rapid neutron capture, also known as the r-process, a seed nucleus grabs free nearby neutrons, quickly taking on the mass to make heavy isotopes. Stephanie Pappas, Scientific American, 14 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for neutron 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'neutron.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near neutron

Cite this Entry

“Neutron.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neutron. Accessed 15 Jul. 2024.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!