Neon Meaning
/ˈni.ɒn/Definition, CEFR level B2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounThe chemical element (symbol Ne) with an atomic number of 10. The second of the noble gases, it is a colourless, odorless inert gas.
nounA form or sample of the element.
Sentence Examples
The neon sign shone as if to invite us.
Helium, neon, argon, krypton, xenon and radon are noble gases.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The ____ lights on the casino roof could be seen for miles at night.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The city streets were brightly lit by colorful ____ signs during the night.
Word Origin & History
Learned borrowing from Ancient Greek νέον (néon), neuter of νέος (néos, “new”), from earlier *νέϝος (*néwos), from Proto-Hellenic *newos, from Proto-Indo-European *néwos. By surface analysis, neo- + -on (suffix used in all noble gases).
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"Bring a song and a smile for the banjo
Better get while the getting's good
Hitch a ride to the end of the highway
Where the neons turn to wood"
— 1970, “Up Around the Bend”, performed by Creedence Clearwater Revival:
"Neons and LED lighting can be controlled by remotes."
— 2009, Jason Syner, How to Install Automotive Mobile Electronic Systems, page 27:
Explore More B2 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The ____ lights on the casino roof could be seen for miles at night.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The city streets were brightly lit by colorful ____ signs during the night.