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
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
By mentioning a confrontation with the West and atomic weapons in the same interview, Shoigu has amplified the nuclear threat that has been hanging over the war for three years.
—
Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Apr. 2025
The union of atomic nuclei to form heavier nuclei resulting in the release of enormous quantities of energy when certain light elements unite (as in nuclear fusion).
—Shep Hyken, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025
On the other hand, nuclear fusion combines two light atomic nuclei—the cores of atoms, consisting of protons and neutrons—into one heavier atomic nucleus.
—Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Apr. 2025
The Islamic Republic, in other words, is on the threshold of becoming the world’s tenth atomic power.
—Comfort Ero, Foreign Affairs, 11 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for atomic
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Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Apr. 2025
The union of atomic nuclei to form heavier nuclei resulting in the release of enormous quantities of energy when certain light elements unite (as in nuclear fusion).
—Shep Hyken, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025
On the other hand, nuclear fusion combines two light atomic nuclei—the cores of atoms, consisting of protons and neutrons—into one heavier atomic nucleus.
—Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Apr. 2025
The Islamic Republic, in other words, is on the threshold of becoming the world’s tenth atomic power.
—Comfort Ero, Foreign Affairs, 11 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for atomic
Cite this Entry
“Atomic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atomic. Accessed 2 May. 2025.
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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