graviton

[ grav-i-ton ]
/ ˈgræv ɪˌtɒn /

noun Physics.

the theoretical quantum of gravitation, usually assumed to be an elementary particle that is its own antiparticle and that has zero rest mass and charge and a spin of two.
Compare photon.

Origin of graviton

First recorded in 1940–45; gravit(y) + -on1

Words nearby graviton

gravitational redshift, gravitational ulcer, gravitational wave, gravitative, gravitino, graviton, gravitropism, gravity, gravity assist, gravity cell, gravity clock

British Dictionary definitions for graviton

graviton
/ (ˈɡrævɪˌtɒn) /

noun

a postulated quantum of gravitational energy, usually considered to be a particle with zero charge and rest mass and a spin of 2 Compare photon

Scientific definitions for graviton

graviton
[ grăv′ĭ-tŏn′ ]

A hypothetical particle postulated in supergravity theory to be the quantum of gravitational interaction, mediating the gravitational force. Like all force carriers, the graviton is a boson. It is presumed to have an indefinitely long lifetime, zero electric charge, a spin of 2, and zero rest mass (thus travelling at the speed of light). The graviton has never been detected. See also supersymmetry. See Table at subatomic particle.