W particle

noun

: either of two particles about 80 times heavier than a proton that along with the Z particle are transmitters of the weak force and that can have a positive or negative charge

Word History

Etymology

weak

First Known Use

1963, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of W particle was in 1963

Dictionary Entries Near W particle

Cite this Entry

“W particle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/W%20particle. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on W particle

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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