electron

noun

elec·​tron i-ˈlek-ˌträn How to pronounce electron (audio)
: an elementary particle consisting of a charge of negative electricity equal to about 1.602 × 10−19 coulomb and having a mass when at rest of about 9.109 × 10−31 kilogram or about 1/1836 that of a proton

Examples of electron 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 resulting divide is not between clean and dirty electrons. — Güney Yıldız, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 The static electricity forms in the dryer as loose electrons give clothing atoms a negative charge. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 2 July 2026 The molecules do not merely sit there holding electrons like ions in a conventional battery electrode. — New Atlas, 3 July 2026 Critical properties such as magnetism and conductivity are determined by the electrons of these atoms. — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for electron

Word History

Etymology

electr- + -on entry 2

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of electron was in 1891

Phrases Containing electron

Rhymes for electron

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Browse Nearby Words

electromyograph
electron
electron affinity
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Cite this Entry

“Electron.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/electron. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

electron

noun
elec·​tron i-ˈlek-ˌträn How to pronounce electron (audio)
: an elementary particle that has a negative charge of electricity and travels around the nucleus of an atom

Medical Definition

electron

noun
elec·​tron i-ˈlek-ˌträn How to pronounce electron (audio)
: an elementary particle consisting of a charge of negative electricity equal to about 1.602 × 10−19 coulomb and having a mass when at rest of about 9.109534 × 10−28 gram or about ¹/₁₈₃₆ that of a proton

More from Merriam-Webster on electron

Nglish: Translation of electron for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about electron

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