atomy

¹

[ at-uh-mee ]

noun

, plural at·o·mies.

1. an atom; mote.
2. a small creature; pygmy.

atomy

²

[ at-uh-mee ]

noun

, plural at·o·mies.

1. a skeleton.

atomy

¹

/ ˈætəmɪ /

noun

1. an atom or minute particle
2. a minute creature

atomy

²

/ ˈætəmɪ /

noun

1. an obsolete word for skeleton

Word History and Origins

Origin of atomy¹

1585–95; singular use of Latin atomī, plural of atomus atom

Origin of atomy²

1590–1600; variant of anatomy (taken as an atomy )

Word History and Origins

Origin of atomy¹

C16: from Latin atomī atoms, but used as if singular; see atom

Origin of atomy²

C16: from mistaken division of anatomy (as if an atomy )

Example Sentences

The laughableness of the thing—this ferocious atomy defying him—struck home to the little man.

From Project Gutenberg

Another man sees a leprechaun walking up to him—'a weeny deeny dawny little atomy of an idea of a small taste of a gentleman.'

From Project Gutenberg

I sometimes think scorn of us as a nation that we so gladly and peaceably put our necks beneath the sceptre of such an atomy.

From Project Gutenberg

Good-gracious, Miss Hagar, if you haven't nearly frightened this little atomy into fits!

From Project Gutenberg

Out of the pearl seemed to issue a spell that stole upon her spirits gently as an atomy settles through the still air.

From Project Gutenberg