subatomic

adjective

sub·​atom·​ic ˌsəb-ə-ˈtä-mik 

1

: of or relating to the inside of the atom

2

: of, relating to, or being particles smaller than atoms

Examples of subatomic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

On top of all of that, quantum sensors—which use the bizarre properties of subatomic particles, such as their ability to be in two different places at once—will eventually be able detect disruptions in the environment, such as the displacement of air around aircraft or water around submarines. —Christian Brose, Foreign Affairs, 16 Apr. 2019

If the second pulse arrives within a short enough duration, scientists can watch subatomic particles in their quantum glory with plenty of time to spare before the X-rays can damage the target. —IEEE Spectrum, 28 May 2024

In 1930, Pauli postulated the existence of the subatomic particle now known as the neutrino, the most common variety of which spills down from the sun and penetrates the human body at a rate of roughly one hundred trillion per second. —Frederick Kaufman, Harper's Magazine, 22 Apr. 2024

Taking it a step further, quantum mechanics itself is the science dealing with how light and matter behave at a subatomic level, beyond what humans can see. —Allie Garfinkle, Fortune, 7 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

subatomic

adjective

sub·​atom·​ic ˌsəb-ə-ˈtäm-ik 

1

: of or relating to the inside of the atom

2

: of, relating to, or being particles smaller than atoms