Compton

American  

[komp-tuhn] / ˈkɒmp tən /

noun

1. Arthur Holly 1892–1962, U.S. physicist: Nobel Prize 1927.

2. his brother Karl Taylor 1887–1954, U.S. physicist.

3. Spencer, Earl of Wilmington, 1673?–1743, British statesman: prime minister 1742–43.

4. a city in SW California.

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Compton British  

noun

1. Arthur Holly. 1892–1962, US physicist, noted for his research on X-rays, gamma rays, and nuclear energy: Nobel prize for physics 1927

2. Denis . 1918–97, English cricketer, who played for Middlesex and England (1937–57); broke two records in 1947 scoring 3816 runs and 18 centuries in one season

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Compton Scientific  

/ kŏmp′tən /

1. American physicist who showed that when particles of light (called photons) collide with other particles, such as electrons, they lose energy and momentum and the light's wavelength increases. For his discovery of this phenomenon (which became known as the Compton effect) he shared the 1927 Nobel Prize for physics with Charles Wilson. He also discovered the electrical nature of cosmic rays.

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Example Sentences

The victim, Adbadalla Thabet, collected cash from gas stations in Downey, Bellflower, Compton and Lynwood early in the morning before driving to the bank.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

Hosted by Watts Homie Quan, performers like Roc’co Tha Clown, and Divas and Drummers of Compton keep the energy high near the DJ booth.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

That’s what the Compton Magic founder has told any NBA teams who have asked.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

“I just think Gilbert wanted him to have to fight,” said Etop Udo-Ema, the founder of Compton Magic, Arenas’ AAU program.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

He added that Compton, “like all of us, is very anxious that we scientists do everything we can in the direction of preparedness, and we discussed ways and means.”

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik