Atomism
/ˈæt.ə.mɪ.zəm/noun
A philosophical theory that posits that everything is composed of indivisible particles called atoms.
Did you know?The term 'atom' comes from the Greek 'atomos', meaning 'indivisible', reflecting ancient beliefs that these particles were the ultimate essence of existence.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἀτόμος (atomos)
“Uncut, indivisible, reflecting the belief in ultimate particles of matter.”
1st Century BC
Greek
Ἀτομισμός (atomismos)
“The doctrine of indivisible particles proposed by philosophers like Democritus.”
Middle Ages
Latin
atomismus
“Adopted by scholars to describe the philosophical ideas of ancient Greeks.”
17th Century
English
atomism
“Return of the concept in scientific discourse relating to the nature of matter.”
Modern English
English
atomism
“Established as a formal term in philosophy and science regarding matter's composition.”