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noun Uncommon

Dalton

DOL-tuhn

Dalton (noun) means a unit of atomic mass, roughly equal to the mass of a hydrogen atom, used to measure the mass of molecules and proteins. Example: “The protein has a mass of about 50,000 daltons.”

noun
1
A unit of atomic mass, roughly equal to the mass of a hydrogen atom, used to measure the mass of molecules and proteins.
"The protein has a mass of about 50,000 daltons."

How to use Dalton

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA very small unit scientists use to weigh atoms and molecules.

Common pairings
kilodalton measured in daltons

Word forms

Daltons plural, daltons plural

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The protein has a mass of about 50,000 _____.

Etymology

Named after the English chemist John Dalton, a pioneer of atomic theory.

Rhymes for Dalton

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Frequently asked questions

What does “Dalton” mean?

The word “Dalton” means a unit of atomic mass, roughly equal to the mass of a hydrogen atom, used to measure the mass of molecules and proteins. In plain terms, a very small unit scientists use to weigh atoms and molecules.

How do you pronounce “Dalton”?

“Dalton” is pronounced DOL-tuhn (/ˈdɔltən/ in IPA).

How do you use “Dalton” in a sentence?

Here is “Dalton” used in a sentence: “The protein has a mass of about 50,000 daltons.”

What part of speech is “Dalton”?

“Dalton” is a noun.

Is “Dalton” a common word?

“Dalton” is an uncommon word in modern English.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial