Electron

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /ɪˈlÉ›ktɹɒn/
• GenAm IPA: /ɪˈlÉ›ktɹɑn/

Origin

From electr(ic) + (i)on, originally proposed as the name for the electric charge associated with a univalent ion. Compare electro-,-on.

Full definition of electron

Noun

1. (particle) The subatomic particle having a negative charge and orbiting the nucleus; the flow of electrons in a conductor constitutes electricity.
2. (chemistry, obsolete) Alloys of magnesium and other metals, like aluminum or zinc, that were manufactured by the German company Chemische Fabrik Griesheim-Elektron.

Related terms

• electronic
• electronics