noun
Uncommon
photon
FOH-ton
Photon (noun) means the smallest possible unit of light or other electromagnetic energy, with no mass or electric charge. Example: “A single photon can trigger a chemical reaction in the eye's retina.”
noun
1
The smallest possible unit of light or other electromagnetic energy, with no mass or electric charge.
"A single photon can trigger a chemical reaction in the eye's retina."
How to use photon
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe basic particle of light, studied in physics.
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Word forms
- Plural
- photons
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A single _____ can trigger a chemical reaction in the eye's retina.
Etymology
Coined from "photo-" plus the particle suffix "-on"; the term was introduced by physicist Leonard Troland in 1916 and later popularized by chemist Gilbert N. Lewis.
Class of 1916
photon joined the language around 1916.
See the full Class of 1916 →
Rhymes for photon
See all rhymes for photon →Frequently asked questions
What does “photon” mean?
The word “photon” means the smallest possible unit of light or other electromagnetic energy, with no mass or electric charge. In plain terms, the basic particle of light, studied in physics.
How do you pronounce “photon”?
“Photon” is pronounced FOH-ton (/ˈfəʊtɒn/ in IPA).
How do you use “photon” in a sentence?
Here is “photon” used in a sentence: “A single photon can trigger a chemical reaction in the eye's retina.”
What part of speech is “photon”?
“Photon” is a noun.
Where does the word “photon” come from?
The word “photon” dates back to around 1916. Coined from "photo-" plus the particle suffix "-on"; the term was introduced by physicist Leonard Troland in 1916 and later popularized by chemist Gilbert N. Lewis.
Is “photon” a common word?
“Photon” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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