atomic
/əˈtɒm.ɪk/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Atomic means related to atoms, which are the tiny parts that make up matter. It can also mean very small or extremely powerful, especially about energy or weapons.
- Scientists studied the atomic structure of the metal.
- The city feared an atomic attack.
Adinary Nuance
Atomic is more scientific than small, tiny, or miniature. It usually refers to atoms, nuclear energy, or something extremely small and basic. In formal writing, atomic sounds precise, while everyday speech often uses tiny or very small instead.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- nguyên tử
- Spanish
- atómico
- Chinese
- 原子
- Japanese
- 原子の
- Korean
- 원자의
Etymology
Atomic comes from Greek atomos, meaning “indivisible.” It entered English through scientific writing in the 17th century, and later became common in physics and nuclear contexts.
Common phrases
atomic energyatomic bombatomic structureatomic number
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is atomic the same as nuclear?
- Not exactly. Atomic is broader, but in modern use both often point to nuclear science or power.
- Is atomic a formal word?
- Yes. It is common in science, education, and formal writing.
- Can atomic mean very small?
- Yes, sometimes. It can describe something extremely small or basic.