atomistic
|a-tom-is-tic|
/ˌætəˈmɪstɪk/
viewing things as separate, indivisible units
Etymology
'atomistic' originates from English formation based on the noun 'atomism' plus the adjectival suffix '-istic'. 'Atomism' ultimately comes from Greek 'atomos', where 'a-' meant 'not' and 'tomos' meant 'cut (slice)'.
'atomos' (Greek) > Latin/Medieval Latin forms > English 'atom' (borrowed) > 'atomism' (coined to name the doctrine) > adjective 'atomistic' formed from 'atomism' + '-istic' in modern English.
Initially it related to the Greek sense of 'uncut, indivisible'; over time it denoted the philosophical doctrine (atomism) and then broadened to describe a general tendency to treat phenomena as composed of separate units.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to atomism, the philosophical doctrine that matter (or reality) is composed of discrete, indivisible units (atoms) or that complex wholes are ultimately reducible to simple parts.
The philosopher defended an atomistic view of matter, arguing that macroscopic properties emerge from interactions of simple, indivisible units.
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Adjective 2
treating or analyzing phenomena as separate, independent parts rather than as components of an interconnected whole; viewing systems in terms of isolated units.
Her approach to social policy was criticized as too atomistic, focusing on individual choices while ignoring structural factors.
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Last updated: 2025/11/12 21:48