linear accelerator

noun

: a device in which charged particles are accelerated in a straight line by successive impulses from a series of electric fields

Examples of linear accelerator 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.
Traditionally, generating such high-energy electron beams requires long linear accelerators, which is why FEL facilities are so large. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 19 Apr. 2026 This machine combines a high-field MRI scanner with a powerful linear accelerator. — Jason Phillips, USA Today, 11 Jan. 2026 Small linear accelerators power a variety of applications around the world. — Paul Sutter, Space.com, 23 Sep. 2025 The new center will have two advanced linear accelerators for radiation oncology, with the potential to add a third, and will also have an in-house retail pharmacy and specialty pharmacy, according to Mount Sinai. — Miami Herald, 30 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for linear accelerator

Word History

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of linear accelerator was in 1945

Rhymes for linear accelerator

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Browse Nearby Words

Linear A
linear accelerator
linear algebra
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Cite this Entry

“Linear accelerator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/linear%20accelerator. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

linear accelerator

noun
: a device in which charged particles are accelerated in a straight line by successive pushes from a series of electric fields

Medical Definition

linear accelerator

noun
: an accelerator in which particles are propelled in a straight line and receive successive increments of energy through the application of alternating potentials to a series of electrodes and gaps

More from Merriam-Webster on linear accelerator

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about linear accelerator

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