The spelling of the word "atomise" can be quite confusing, but it is pronounced as /ˈatəmʌɪz/. The word is spelled with an "i" in the second syllable, although it may seem more intuitive to spell it with an "o". This is because the word is derived from the noun "atom", which is also spelled with an "o". However, the verb form of "atom" is spelled with an "i", making it "atomize". The suffix "-ise" is commonly used in British English to create verbs from nouns, hence "atomise".
Atomise is a verb that refers to the process of breaking down or dividing something into very small or individual parts. The concept of atomisation can be understood both literally and figuratively.
In the literal sense, atomise means to reduce a substance or object into its smallest components or particles, similar to how atoms are seen as the fundamental building blocks of matter. This process can involve physically breaking or pulverising the material into tiny fragments, resulting in a fine powder or a mist-like state. For instance, in chemistry, liquids can be atomised using specialized equipment to form a fine spray or mist.
On the other hand, atomise can also be used figuratively to describe the fragmentation or breakdown of concepts, ideas, or groups. This implies the breaking apart or disintegration of a larger whole into smaller factions or individual components. It signifies a sense of disunity, dispersal, or fragmentary nature. For example, in the context of social or political dynamics, atomisation may describe the disintegration of society into isolated individuals or the fragmentation of a political movement into different factions.
Overall, atomise involves the process of breaking down something into its smallest components or disintegrating a larger whole into smaller parts, either in a literal or figurative sense.
To reduce to atoms.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "atomise" is derived from the noun "atom", which comes from the ancient Greek word "atomos" meaning "indivisible". In Greek philosophy, "atomos" referred to an indivisible and indestructible particle that constituted matter. The suffix "-ise" (or "-ize" in American English) is a verb-forming suffix that indicates the act or process of doing something. Therefore, "atomise" means to break something down into its smallest indivisible parts or to reduce to tiny particles, reflecting the idea of fragmentation or disintegration.