atomism

noun

at·​om·​ism ˈa-tə-ˌmi-zəm How to pronounce atomism (audio)
1
: a doctrine that the physical or physical and mental universe is composed of simple indivisible minute particles
2
: individualism sense 1
atomist
ˈa-tə-mist How to pronounce atomism (audio)
noun

Examples of atomism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The theory of atomism was not entirely accepted by the Victorian era. — Quanta Magazine, 12 Sep. 2024 While the society’s poets such as Homer and Hesiod pioneered Western literature, Greek thinkers paved the way for modern medicine, mathematics and science, and became the first proponents of ideas such as atomism and heliocentrism. — Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 1 Dec. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1678, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of atomism was in 1678

Rhymes for atomism

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atomise
atomism
atomistic
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Cite this Entry

“Atomism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atomism. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.

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Medical Definition

atomism

noun
at·​om·​ism ˈat-ə-ˌmiz-əm How to pronounce atomism (audio)
1
: a doctrine that the universe is composed of simple indivisible minute particles
2
: a psychological doctrine that perceptions, thoughts, and all mental processes are built up by the combination of simple elements

More from Merriam-Webster on atomism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about atomism

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