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
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.
High-energy neutrons released during the fusion process can degrade reactor materials, making maintenance a constant concern. New Atlas, 22 Dec. 2024 The neutrons fly out at extremely high speeds, and so engineers must find ways to convert their kinetic energy into heat that could be used to drive steam turbines. Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 19 Dec. 2024 At the Department of Energy (DOE), which runs 17 national laboratories and large facilities such as x-ray synchrotrons and neutron sources, managers often have enough reserve funding to continue operations for a short while. Bydavid Malakoff, science.org, 19 Dec. 2024 Both its neutron count and its proton count are a magic number. Artemis Spyrou, Discover Magazine, 9 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near neutron

Cite this Entry

“Neutron.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neutron. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

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!