Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌkɒmɪˈnjuːʃən/

Definitions

• The action or process of reducing something to small particles or fragments, often through grinding, crushing, or breaking.
• A process used in materials science, mining, and pharmaceuticals to break down substances into smaller components for further processing or analysis.
• The act of fragmenting or pulverizing materials, especially in industrial or mechanical contexts.

Usage Examples

• The comminution of the ore is a crucial step in the extraction of valuable metals.
• In the pharmaceutical industry, comminution is used to grind tablets into powder for easier administration.
• The comminution of food in a blender helps in the digestion process by breaking it into smaller pieces.

Etymology

The word 'comminution' originates from the Latin word 'comminuere,' meaning 'to reduce to small pieces,' from 'com-' (together) and 'minuere' (to lessen or diminish). The term began being used in the 17th century to describe the process of breaking materials into finer particles.

Synonyms

• Grinding
• Crushing
• Pulverization
• Fragmentation
• Disintegration

Antonyms

• Consolidation
• Aggregation
• Combination
• Assembly
• Fusion

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of 'comminution' may slightly vary depending on regional accents. In some places, the second syllable may be emphasized, while in others, the emphasis may shift to the first syllable. The 'sh' sound in the 'tion' ending can also vary, especially in non-native English accents.

Historical Usage

The term 'comminution' was first recorded in the 17th century, particularly in scientific texts relating to mineralogy and material sciences. Initially, it referred to the process of reducing materials like ores or stones into smaller fragments, a concept that evolved with industrial and technological advancements.

Cultural Nuances

In some cultures, the idea of 'comminution' extends beyond its literal meaning, being used metaphorically to describe the breaking down of complex concepts or systems into more manageable parts. It can also symbolize the deconstruction of traditions or the simplification of complicated issues in social or political contexts.

More Information

Comminution is widely used in various industries such as mining, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. In the mining industry, comminution is an essential step in the extraction of metals from ores, involving crushers and mills to break down large rocks into finer particles. In pharmaceuticals, comminution refers to the process of grinding solid medicines into a fine powder for better absorption or easier formulation. The technology behind comminution has significantly evolved, leading to more efficient machines that minimize energy consumption while maximizing material breakdown.