Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/əˈtɒmɪk/ (uh-TOM-ik)

Definitions

• 1. Relating to or consisting of atoms, the basic units of matter. Example: Atomic structure refers to the arrangement of subatomic particles in an atom.
• 2. Involving nuclear reactions or energy, typically referring to nuclear power or weapons. Example: Atomic energy is harnessed in nuclear reactors for electricity production.
• 3. Of or relating to an atom or atoms in a figurative sense, like in "atomic habits" meaning the smallest or most fundamental part of something.
• 4. Extremely small or minute, often used figuratively to describe something very tiny. Example: The changes were atomic in size but significant in impact.

Usage Examples

• The atomic theory of matter explains the chemical properties of elements.
• The discovery of atomic energy revolutionized the way we think about power generation.
• Atomic bombs have had a lasting impact on international relations and warfare.
• The scientist conducted an atomic-level analysis of the material's structure.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word "atomos," meaning "indivisible," the term "atomic" was first used in the early 19th century in reference to the indivisibility of atoms, a concept central to the development of modern chemistry and physics. The term evolved to encompass a variety of meanings, including those related to nuclear reactions, energy, and weapons during the 20th century as atomic theory and atomic bombs came to prominence.

Synonyms

• Subatomic
• Nuclear
• Microscopic
• Infinitesimal
• Minute

Antonyms

• Macroscopic
• Large-scale
• Gigantic
• Enormous
• Vast

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some English dialects, the stress on "atomic" may vary slightly, with certain accents emphasizing the second syllable more heavily. In British English, it’s more common to pronounce the first vowel as a short "o" (/ə/), while in American English, the pronunciation may have a slightly more stressed "o" sound, particularly in scientific contexts.

Historical Usage

The term "atomic" gained widespread prominence in the early 20th century, particularly following the development of nuclear physics and the discovery of atomic structure by scientists like Niels Bohr and Albert Einstein. The use of atomic energy for both peaceful and military purposes during World War II (with the development of atomic bombs) brought the word into the global lexicon, associated with both progress and destruction.

Cultural Nuances

In popular culture, "atomic" often carries a dual meaning—on one hand, symbolizing progress and the power of modern science, and on the other, signifying the potential danger and devastation inherent in nuclear technology. "Atomic" is frequently used in titles, such as atomic age, atomic bomb, and atomic energy, often evoking a sense of awe and fear associated with the power of the atom.

More Information

The concept of "atomic" has continued to evolve, especially in the realm of science and technology. Today, "atomic" refers to a broad range of topics, including the study of atomic energy, particle physics, and the quest to understand the very building blocks of the universe. Despite the potential dangers of atomic weapons, the pursuit of atomic energy for peaceful purposes—such as generating power through nuclear reactors—remains a major field of research and development.