positron

noun

pos·​i·​tron ˈpä-zə-ˌträn How to pronounce positron (audio)
: a positively charged particle having the same mass and magnitude of charge as the electron and constituting the antiparticle of the electron

called also antielectron

Examples of positron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These plaques are a hallmark of Alzheimer's and previously required either costly positron emission tomography (PET) scans, or invasive spinal fluid analysis for confirmation. Thomas Westerholm, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 May 2025 Typically, an accurate Alzheimer's diagnosis requires expensive and time-consuming testing, including a brain positron emission tomography (PET) scan, which is a type of imaging test of the brain. Youri Benadjaoud, ABC News, 16 May 2025 The other part of the research involves using a positron emission tomography (PET) scanner, a live imaging system to monitor living cell therapies. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 31 Jan. 2025 For example, the electron and positron differ only in charge, and the electron and the muon differ only in mass. Paul Sutter, Space.com, 24 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for positron

Word History

Etymology

positive + -tron (as in electron)

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of positron was in 1933

Cite this Entry

“Positron.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/positron. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

positron

noun
pos·​i·​tron ˈpäz-ə-ˌträn How to pronounce positron (audio)
: a positively charged particle having the same mass and size of charge as the electron

Medical Definition

positron

noun
pos·​i·​tron ˈpäz-ə-ˌträn How to pronounce positron (audio)
: a positively charged particle having the same mass and magnitude of charge as the electron and constituting the antiparticle of the electron

called also positive electron

More from Merriam-Webster on positron

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