atomize

verb

at·​om·​ize ˈa-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce atomize (audio)
atomized; atomizing

transitive verb

1
: to treat as made up of many discrete units
2
: to reduce to minute particles or to a fine spray
3
: divide, fragment
an atomized society
also : to deprive of meaningful ties to others
atomized individuals
4
: to subject to attack by nuclear weapons
atomization noun

Examples of atomize in a Sentence

this medication for athlete's foot is atomized so that it can be sprayed on from an aerosol can
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But as the audience continues to be atomized by the growing number of streaming options, sports are more valuable than ever for advertisers who want to reach a mass audience. Stephen Battaglio, Los Angeles Times, 16 May 2025 Because the opposition was so atomized, the National Liberation Front and its allies won easily. Yahia H. Zoubir, Foreign Affairs, 9 Feb. 2016 If the Karzai government collapses, Afghanistan could break down into the kind of anarchy and atomized civil warfare of the 1990s. Stephen Biddle, Foreign Affairs, 1 July 2010 Shooting Outside Hollywood: Challenges, Opportunities, and Passports Runaway production has been atomized as states and countries compete to offer producers the hottest deals. Christian Blauvelt, IndieWire, 17 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for atomize

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of atomize was in 1865

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Atomize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atomize. Accessed 7 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

atomize

verb
at·​om·​ize ˈat-ə-ˌmīz How to pronounce atomize (audio)
atomized; atomizing
: to reduce to very tiny particles or to a fine spray

Medical Definition

atomize

transitive verb
at·​om·​ize
variants or British atomise
atomized or British atomised; atomizing or British atomising
: to convert to minute particles or to a fine spray
an atomized medicated powder
atomization noun
or British atomisation
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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