adj

subatomic

suh-buh-TO-mihk

Subatomic (adj) means Smaller than an atom, or relating to the particles — like protons, neutrons, and electrons — that make up an atom. Example: “Physicists study subatomic particles to understand what matter is really made of.”

adj

Smaller than an atom, or relating to the particles — like protons, neutrons, and electrons — that make up an atom.

"Physicists study subatomic particles to understand what matter is really made of."

"The collider smashes protons together to reveal subatomic structure."

How to use subatomic

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDescribes anything at a scale smaller than a whole atom.

Common pairings

subatomic particle subatomic physics subatomic level

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Fill the gap

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Physicists study _____ particles to understand what matter is really made of.

Etymology

Built from sub- ("below, under") plus atomic — literally "smaller than the atom."

Rhymes for subatomic

comic atomic economic ergonomic socioeconomic

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Frequently asked questions

What does “subatomic” mean?

The word “subatomic” means smaller than an atom, or relating to the particles — like protons, neutrons, and electrons — that make up an atom. In plain terms, describes anything at a scale smaller than a whole atom.

How do you pronounce “subatomic”?

“Subatomic” is pronounced suh-buh-TO-mihk (/ˌsʌbəˈtɑːmɪk/ in IPA).

How do you use “subatomic” in a sentence?

Here is “subatomic” used in a sentence: “Physicists study subatomic particles to understand what matter is really made of.”

What part of speech is “subatomic”?

“Subatomic” is an adjective.