noun
tachyon
TAK-ee-on
Tachyon (noun) means a hypothetical particle that would always travel faster than light. Example: “Science fiction writers love using tachyons to explain time travel.”
noun
1
A hypothetical particle that would always travel faster than light.
"Science fiction writers love using tachyons to explain time travel."
How to use tachyon
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA theoretical faster-than-light particle that has never actually been observed.
Memory tip
Tachyons are a physics thought experiment, not a confirmed real particle.
Trace the full origin ↓ Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like tachyon.
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
- tachyons
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Science fiction writers love using _____ to explain time travel.
Etymology
Coined in 1967 by physicist Gerald Feinberg from Greek takhus, "swift," plus the particle-naming suffix "-on."
Synonyms
View more →
tachyonic particle
Rhymes for tachyon
See all rhymes for tachyon →Frequently asked questions
What does “tachyon” mean?
The word “tachyon” means a hypothetical particle that would always travel faster than light. In plain terms, a theoretical faster-than-light particle that has never actually been observed.
How do you pronounce “tachyon”?
“Tachyon” is pronounced TAK-ee-on (/ˈtæ.kiˌɑn/ in IPA).
How do you use “tachyon” in a sentence?
Here is “tachyon” used in a sentence: “Science fiction writers love using tachyons to explain time travel.”
What is another word for “tachyon”?
Words with a similar meaning to “tachyon” include tachyonic particle.
What part of speech is “tachyon”?
“Tachyon” is a noun.
Where does the word “tachyon” come from?
The word “tachyon” dates back to around 1967 and comes from Greek. Coined in 1967 by physicist Gerald Feinberg from Greek takhus, "swift," plus the particle-naming suffix "-on.".
