subatomic
|sub-a-tom-ic|
C1
/ˌsʌb.əˈtɒm.ɪk/
smaller than an atom
Etymology
Etymology Information
'subatomic' originates from the prefix 'sub-' meaning 'below' or 'under' and 'atomic' from the Greek 'atomos' meaning 'indivisible'.
Historical Evolution
'subatomic' was formed in the early 20th century as scientific understanding of particles smaller than atoms developed.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred to anything smaller than an atom, and this meaning has remained consistent.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to or denoting particles smaller than an atom.
Subatomic particles include protons, neutrons, and electrons.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/02/16 02:06