noun

fermion

FUR-mee-on

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Fermion (noun) means In particle physics, any elementary or composite particle with half-integer spin that obeys the Pauli exclusion principle. Example: “Electrons and quarks are both examples of fermions.”

noun

technical In particle physics, any elementary or composite particle with half-integer spin that obeys the Pauli exclusion principle.

"Electrons and quarks are both examples of fermions."

"No two fermions in the same system can occupy an identical quantum state."

"Physicists classify baryons and leptons as fermions."

How to use fermion

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA fermion is a type of particle that refuses to share its exact quantum state with another identical particle.

When to use it

This is a specialist term confined to particle physics and related sciences.

Memory tip

Link the word to Enrico Fermi and to the idea that fermions never crowd into the same state.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

boson → fermium →

Common pairings

elementary fermion fermion and boson half-integer spin obey the Pauli exclusion principle

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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”.

Test yourself on “fermion” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Electrons and quarks are both examples of _____.

Etymology

Fermion combines the surname Fermi with the suffix -on used for particle names. It honours the Italian-American physicist Enrico Fermi and was coined in 1945 by the English physicist Paul Dirac in a lecture on atomic theory.

Origin: English (from a surname)

Antonyms

boson

Related words

boson

Rhymes for fermion

region ablation allusion emulsion ideation novation diffusion elocution extension oxidation perfusion selection

See all rhymes for fermion →

Frequently asked questions

What is a fermion in physics?

A fermion is a particle, such as an electron or quark, that has half-integer spin and obeys the Pauli exclusion principle.

Why is it called a fermion?

It is named after physicist Enrico Fermi, and the term was coined by Paul Dirac in 1945.

What is the difference between a fermion and a boson?

Fermions obey the Pauli exclusion principle and cannot share the same quantum state, while bosons can, because they have integer spin instead.

What is the meaning of fermion?

"fermion" (noun) means in particle physics, any elementary or composite particle with half-integer spin that obeys the Pauli exclusion principle.

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