Definition

Referring to matter that does not include baryons, which are particles like protons and neutrons that make up atomic nuclei.

Example

Dark matter is often considered to be nonbaryonic because it does not consist of ordinary atoms.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new theories in astrophysics?

Yeah, I've been reading about nonbaryonic matter lately.

It's fascinating how much of the universe is made up of that.

Absolutely! It really changes our understanding of dark matter.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonbaryonic → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "baryon" (from Greek "baryon", meaning heavy particle). The term "nonbaryonic" refers to matter that is not composed of baryons, which are particles like protons and neutrons that make up ordinary matter.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'baryon' referring to 'heavy particles' — so nonbaryonic means something that is not made of those heavy particles.

Visually Confused Words