noun

angstrom

ANG-strom

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Angstrom (noun) means an angstrom is a unit of length equal to one ten-billionth of a metre, roughly the size of an atom, used mainly to measure wavelengths of light and distances between atoms. Example: “The bond length between the two atoms was measured in angstroms.”

noun

physics An angstrom is a unit of length equal to one ten-billionth of a metre, roughly the size of an atom, used mainly to measure wavelengths of light and distances between atoms.

"The bond length between the two atoms was measured in angstroms."

"X-ray wavelengths are often given in angstroms rather than nanometres."

"A single hydrogen atom is only about one angstrom across."

How to use angstrom

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA tiny unit for measuring things on the scale of atoms.

When to use it

It is a technical term used in physics and chemistry rather than everyday speech.

Memory tip

Remember it is a unit of length, not of time or mass, and is written with a lower-case letter even though it comes from a person's name.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

measured in angstroms a few angstroms wide angstrom resolution the angstrom scale

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The bond length between the two atoms was measured in _____.

Etymology

The word was borrowed from Swedish ångström. It honours the Swedish physicist Anders Jonas Ångström, after whom the unit was named.

Origin: Swedish

Frequently asked questions

What does an angstrom measure?

An angstrom measures very small lengths, such as the wavelength of light or the distance between atoms in a molecule.

Why is it called an angstrom?

It is named after the Swedish physicist Anders Jonas Ångström.

What symbol is used for an angstrom?

It is written with the symbol Å.

What is the meaning of angstrom?

"angstrom" (noun) means an angstrom is a unit of length equal to one ten-billionth of a metre, roughly the size of an atom, used mainly to measure wavelengths of light and distances between atoms.