adjective / noun
particulate
par-TIK-yuh-lut/pɑːrˈtɪkjələt/
Matter in the form of tiny separate particles.
The magnifying glass reveals the sand's particulate form as separate tiny grains.
Etymology
Particula means a little part or grain. The adjective describes material taking the form of such small pieces, connecting the selected meaning directly with its grain-like constituents.
In context
almost all this or all these particles or which in in science we call aerosols which is anything that's in the atmos in the air that's not a gas. It's particulate matter.
More examples
- Diesel engines release particulates into the air.
- Fine particulate remains suspended in the water.
- Workers wear masks to avoid breathing particulate dust.
Forms
particulate · particulates
particle noun — A tiny separate piece of matter.
Similar words
- granular
- Describes material made of grains, often larger and visible.
- dust
- Refers specifically to fine, dry particles, often airborne.