atomic

adjective

atom·​ic ə-ˈtä-mik How to pronounce atomic (audio)
1
a
: of, relating to, or concerned with atoms
atomic physics
b
: nuclear sense 2
atomic energy
2
a
: marked by acceptance of the theory of atomism
3
: minute
4
of a chemical element : existing in the state of separate atoms
atomically adverb

Examples of atomic in a Sentence

made atomic adjustments to the clock's mechanism to keep it from whirring as it ran
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In this process, subatomic particles such as protons and neutrons—and even entire atomic nuclei—could be smashed together, fusing to form heavier nuclei and releasing an enormous amount of energy. Phil Plait, Scientific American, 10 Apr. 2025 This is about the mechanics of how money moves—legacy systems controlled by intermediaries, burdened by high costs and delays, or blockchain rails enabling direct, peer-to-peer, atomic settlement. Roomy Khan, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025 Here's a timeline of the tensions between the two countries over Iran's atomic program. Associated Press, Time, 9 Apr. 2025 Previously, research has suggested the formation of the heaviest elements, such as gold, requires copious amounts of neutrons that atomic nuclei can absorb to become larger and larger. Charles Q. Choi, Space.com, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for atomic

Word History

First Known Use

1678, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of atomic was in 1678

Cite this Entry

“Atomic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atomic. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

atomic

adjective
atom·​ic ə-ˈtäm-ik How to pronounce atomic (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or concerned with atoms, atomic bombs, or nuclear energy
atomic physics
the atomic age
atomic energy
2
: extremely small
3
: found in the state of separate atoms
atomic hydrogen

More from Merriam-Webster on atomic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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