lambda

noun

lamb·da | \ ˈlam-də

Definition of lambda

1 : the 11th letter of the Greek alphabet — see Alphabet Table

2 : an uncharged unstable elementary particle that has a mass 2183 times that of an electron and that decays typically into a nucleon and a pion

Examples of lambda in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Xi decays into a particle called the lambda baryon and three lighter particles, the K- (or kaon) and two pions. — Fox News, "‘Charming’ heavy particle discovered at world’s largest atom smasher," 11 July 2017 However, the name is trademarked, and the project opted instead for lambda — the Greek letter used to symbolize wavelength. — Wired Staff, WIRED, "Fast Track for Science Data," 17 Nov. 2003

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'lambda.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.