atom
/ˈætəm/ noun A2- The smallest possible amount of matter which still retains its identity as a chemical element, now known to consist of a nucleus surrounded by electrons.
- A hypothetical particle posited by Greek philosophers as an ultimate and indivisible component of matter.
- The smallest, indivisible constituent part or unit of something.
- In logical atomism, a fundamental fact that cannot be further broken down.
- The smallest medieval unit of time, equal to fifteen ninety-fourths of a second.
- A mote of dust in a sunbeam.
- A very small amount; a whit.
- An individual number or symbol, as opposed to a list; a scalar value.
Plural atoms
From the library
He next tried to jump about his master as he had seen the Lapdog do, but he broke the table and smashed all the dishes upon it to atoms.
I have, during those five-and-twenty years, spared no pains to understand the people of France and the interests which were confided to me; and now, when I see the fruition of my wishes almost within reach, the power I hold in my hands bursts and shatters me to atoms!”
The soldiers you believe to be dying with hunger, worn out with fatigue, ready to desert, gather like atoms of snow about the rolling ball as it hastens onward.
Directly in front of him, holding on by a low branch, stood a naked brown baby who could just walk--as soft and as dimpled a little atom as ever came to a wolf’s cave at night.
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