atomus
[ˈa.tɔ.mʊs]feminine
The English word 'atom' is translated into Latin as atomus.
In the contexts of chemistry and physics, atomus refers to the smallest possible amount of matter that retains its chemical properties.
Meaning: chemistry, physics: smallest possible amount of matter retaining its chemical properties (noun)
Did you know?
- The Roman philosopher Lucretius used the concept of atomus in his poem 'De Rerum Natura' to explain the nature of the universe.
- The Latin atomus is an etymological transplant from the Greek ἄτομος, which literally means 'uncut' or 'indivisible'.
- In certain Latin texts, atomus can refer to a 'particle' in a general sense, not necessarily a chemical one.
Examples in context
- Scientia de atomis est fundamentum chemiae.The science of atoms is the foundation of chemistry.
- Corpusculum quod movetur.The moving particle.
- Atomus est parvus.The atom is small.
Example conversation
Two students are discussing their science lesson in a library.
- MarcusScisne quid sit atomus?Do you know what an atom is?
- LuciaIta, Marce, atomus est parva res.Yes, Marcus, an atom is a small thing.
- MarcusEstne atomus visibilis?Is the atom visible?
- LuciaNon, non est visibilis.No, it is not visible.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “atom” translations and entries atomus, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries atomus, CC BY-SA 4.0.
