proton
[ˈproː.tɔn]
The Latin word for proton is proton.
In a scientific context, proton refers to a positively charged nucleon.
Meaning: positively charged nucleon (noun)
Did you know?
- The term is a semantic transplant from Greek where it meant 'first' rather than a physical particle. In the original Greek, it was the neuter form of 'first', which is why it retains a neuter gender in scientific Latin.
- While the word exists in Latin, it is used almost exclusively in 'New Latin', a version of the language created for international science and medicine.
- In classical Latin, the word 'proton' would not exist as a noun. If you were to use the Greek root to mean 'first' in a purely Latin sentence, you would likely use 'primus' instead.
Examples in context
- In physicis, proton est particula positiva.In physics, a proton is a positive particle.
Example conversation
Two students are discussing chemistry.
- QuintusQuid est proton?What is a proton?
- JuliaEst particula positiva in nucleo.It is a positive particle in the nucleus.
- QuintusHabeone proton in hoc atomo?Do I have a proton in this atom?
- JuliaIta, Julia dicit omnia atomi proton habere.Yes, Julia says all atoms have a proton.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “proton” translations and entries proton, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries proton, CC BY-SA 4.0.
