noun
Uncommon
proton
PROH-ton
Proton (noun) means a positively charged particle found in the nucleus of every atom. Example: “The number of protons in an atom determines which element it is.”
noun
1
A positively charged particle found in the nucleus of every atom.
"The number of protons in an atom determines which element it is."
"Protons and neutrons together make up most of an atom's mass."
How to use proton
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA tiny positively-charged particle inside an atom's nucleus, alongside neutrons.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
proton beam
proton number
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like proton.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- protons
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The number of _____ in an atom determines which element it is.
Etymology
Coined in 1920 by physicist Ernest Rutherford from Greek prôton, "first thing," echoing the earlier-named electron.
Class of 1920
proton joined the language around 1920.
See the full Class of 1920 →
Synonyms
View more →
p
Related words
Rhymes for proton
See all rhymes for proton →Frequently asked questions
What does “proton” mean?
The word “proton” means a positively charged particle found in the nucleus of every atom. In plain terms, a tiny positively-charged particle inside an atom's nucleus, alongside neutrons.
How do you pronounce “proton”?
“Proton” is pronounced PROH-ton (/ˈpɹoʊ.tɑn/ in IPA).
How do you use “proton” in a sentence?
Here is “proton” used in a sentence: “The number of protons in an atom determines which element it is.”
What is another word for “proton”?
Words with a similar meaning to “proton” include p.
What part of speech is “proton”?
“Proton” is a noun.
Where does the word “proton” come from?
The word “proton” dates back to around 1920 and comes from Greek. Coined in 1920 by physicist Ernest Rutherford from Greek prôton, "first thing," echoing the earlier-named electron.
Is “proton” a common word?
“Proton” is an uncommon word in modern English.
