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
Synonyms
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
Quantum computing is a revolutionary type of computing that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics—the fundamental theory in physics that describes the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic levels.
—
Tom Howarth, Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2024
While the Virginia-class submarines will be nuclear-powered, they will not be armed with atomic weapons and are instead expected to carry long-range cruise missiles.
—CBS News, 10 Dec. 2024
Researchers would now be able to quickly re-create the effects of many different atomic lattices in a single device and find out exactly what electrons are capable of.
—Charlie Wood, Quanta Magazine, 6 Dec. 2024
Iran, as a signatory to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, has pledged to allow the IAEA to visit its atomic sites to ensure that its program is peaceful.
—Jon Gambrell The Associated Press, arkansasonline.com, 30 Nov. 2024
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Tom Howarth, Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2024
While the Virginia-class submarines will be nuclear-powered, they will not be armed with atomic weapons and are instead expected to carry long-range cruise missiles.
—CBS News, 10 Dec. 2024
Researchers would now be able to quickly re-create the effects of many different atomic lattices in a single device and find out exactly what electrons are capable of.
—Charlie Wood, Quanta Magazine, 6 Dec. 2024
Iran, as a signatory to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, has pledged to allow the IAEA to visit its atomic sites to ensure that its program is peaceful.
—Jon Gambrell The Associated Press, arkansasonline.com, 30 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for atomic
Dictionary Entries Near atomic
Cite this Entry
“Atomic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atomic. Accessed 24 Dec. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
atomic
adjective
atom·ic
ə-ˈtäm-ik 
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
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