hyperon

noun

hy·​per·​on ˈhī-pə-ˌrän How to pronounce hyperon (audio)
: an elementary particle of the baryon group having greater mass than a nucleon

Examples of hyperon 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.
For example, neutrons might be replaced by hyperons, three-quark particles that include at least one strange quark. Quanta Magazine, 30 Oct. 2017

Word History

Etymology

probably from hyper- + -on entry 2

First Known Use

1953, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hyperon was in 1953

Dictionary Entries Near hyperon

Cite this Entry

“Hyperon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hyperon. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on hyperon

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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