Meaning & Definition of word "Subatomic"

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    Subatomic

    /ˌsʌbəˈtɒmɪk/

    adjective:

    • 1. Relating to or smaller than an atom.
      • Example: The physicist studied the subatomic particles to understand the fundamental structure of matter.
    • 2. Describing interactions or phenomena that occur at scales smaller than atoms.
      • Example: Quantum mechanics deals with the behavior of subatomic particles.
    • 3. Involving processes that are relevant at the level of atoms and their constituents.
      • Example: The research focused on subatomic interactions that lead to nuclear fusion.
    • 4. Characterized by fundamental forces and particles that shape the universe.
      • Example: Subatomic discoveries have revolutionized our understanding of the universe's early moments.

    Etymology

    From the prefix 'sub-' meaning below or less than and 'atomic' from 'atom', indicating a scale smaller than an atom.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    subatomic particle:

    A particle smaller than an atom.

    subatomic physics:

    The branch of physics that deals with subatomic particles.

    subatomic level:

    Referring to a scale that is smaller than atoms.

    Related Words

    atom:

    The basic unit of a chemical element.

    particle:

    A minute portion of matter.

    quantum:

    The smallest amount of energy that can be transmitted.

    Slang Meanings of subatomic

    Meaning: Referring to something extremely small or insignificant.

    Example Sentence: His concerns about the deadline were so subatomic, they didn’t even matter.

    Meaning: Used to describe something that can't be understood due to its complexity.

    Example Sentence: The instructions were subatomic; I couldn’t make heads or tails of them.