Z particle

noun

: a neutral elementary particle about 90 times heavier than a proton that along with the W particle is a transmitter of the weak force

called also Z0, Z0 particle

Examples of Z particle 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.
The Z particle is electrically neutral, and an exchange of such particles is known as a neutral current. Washington Post, 26 July 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1979, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Z particle was in 1979

Dictionary Entries Near Z particle

Cite this Entry

“Z particle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Z%20particle. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on Z particle

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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