atomically
Meaning
In a manner relating to atoms or atomic energy.
In a manner that is extremely small or precise; to the most minute degree.
Structure
Usage
The substance was analyzed atomically using a scanning tunneling microscope.
The two theories are atomically different in their fundamental assumptions.
The nation is committed to using nuclear power but opposes the proliferation of atomically armed states.
Etymology
The word 'atomically' is built upon the ancient Greek concept of the atomos, an indivisible unit of matter. The Greek negative prefix a- combined with temnein (to cut) created a term for the fundamental, uncuttable particle believed to constitute all things. The suffix -ic was later appended to form the adjective 'atomic', pertaining to these particles or the energy derived from splitting them, a modern irony given the root's original meaning of indivisibility. Finally, the adverbial suffix -ally transforms it to describe an action performed with the precision or on the scale of atoms, or in relation to atomic physics.
Analysis
- atom: From Greek atomos, meaning 'indivisible', from a- (not) + temnein (to cut). In this word, it functions as the core noun root. - ic: A suffix of Greek and Latin origin used to form adjectives meaning 'of or pertaining to'. - ally: A suffix of Latin origin (-alis), via French, used to form adverbs from adjectives.