Atome
/ˈæt.əʊm/noun
The smallest unit of a chemical element, consisting of a nucleus surrounded by electrons.
Did you know?The term 'atom' comes from ancient Greek 'atomos', meaning 'indivisible', reflecting the philosophical belief that everything is composed of these unbreakable particles.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἄτομος
“Uncuttable, indivisible, reflecting the belief that matter could not be divided infinitely.”
14th Century
Latin
atomus
“A particle, derived from Greek, used in philosophical discussions about the nature of matter.”
Late 16th Century
English
atom
“The fundamental building block of matter as understood in early modern science.”
19th Century
English
atom
“Became a key concept in chemistry, denoting the smallest unit of a chemical element.”
Modern English
English
atom
“Commonly understood as the basic unit of a chemical element, essential in modern scientific discourse.”