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atomize

[at-uh-mahyz]

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SEE MORE SYNONYMS FOR atomize ON THESAURUS.COM

verb (used with object), at·om·ized, at·om·iz·ing.

to reduce to atoms.

to reduce to fine particles or spray.

to destroy (a target) by bombing, especially with an atomic bomb.

verb (used without object), at·om·ized, at·om·iz·ing.

to split into many sections, groups, factions, etc.; fragmentize: Critics say the group has atomized around several leaders.

Also especially British, at·om·ise.

Origin of atomize

First recorded in 1670–80; atom + -ize

Related formsat·om·i·za·tion, noun

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Related Words for atomization

disintegration, decay, division, putrefaction, dissolution, putrescence, dissipation, corruption, putridity

Examples from the Web for atomization

Contemporary Examples of atomization

Foer argues that our digital lives are giving way to atomization and deep societal alienation.
In Defense of Digital Communication
Mira Sucharov
June 19, 2013

Historical Examples of atomization

Adjusting and locking the nozzle regulates the degree of atomization.
Advanced Toy Making for Schools
David M. Mitchell

British Dictionary definitions for atomization

atomize

atomise

verb

to separate or be separated into free atoms

to reduce (a liquid or solid) to fine particles or spray or (of a liquid or solid) to be reduced in this way

(tr) to destroy by weapons, esp nuclear weapons

Derived Formsatomization or atomisation, noun

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for atomization

n.

1866, noun of action from atomize.

atomize

v.

"reduce to atoms," 1845; "reduce a liquid to a very fine mist," 1865, verb formed from atom + -ize. Related: Atomized; atomizing. Originally in reference to medical treatment for injured or diseased lungs; sense of "to destroy with atomic weapons" is from 1945.

Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper