Definition

Noun: 1. A specific theory in chemistry and philosophy: The atomist theory is any theory proposing that all matter is composed of tiny, discrete, finite, indivisible, and indestructible particles. This concept is foundational to atomic theory. 2. A historical philosophical doctrine: Specifically, the atomist theory refers to the beliefs held by ancient Greek philosophers, such as Democritus and Epicurus, who posited that the universe is composed of such indivisible particles and void.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The development of modern chemistry owes much to the principles of the atomist theory.
  • Democritus is famous for his early version of the atomist theory, which described the world as made of atoms and empty space.

Advanced Usage

• "to hold an atomist theory": To subscribe to or believe in the principles of atomism.
  • The philosopher was known to hold an atomist theory of matter.

Variants and Related Words

• Atomism (n): The philosophical system or doctrine based on the atomist theory.
  • Ancient Greek atomism was a significant development in pre-Socratic thought.
• Atomistic (adj): Relating to or based on the atomist theory; analyzing things as isolated, individual parts.
  • His approach was too atomistic, ignoring the larger systemic connections.

Synonyms

• Atomic theory: The modern scientific theory that matter is composed of atoms. (Note: While closely related, "atomic theory" is the modern scientific descendant, whereas "atomist theory" often carries a historical or philosophical connotation.)
• Corpuscular theory: A historical theory, especially in optics, that light is composed of particles (corpuscles), sharing the conceptual basis of discrete particles.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• "atomist theory of the universe": A phrase specifying the application of atomist principles to cosmology.
  • Epicurus taught an atomist theory of the universe that included a materialistic philosophy.

Noun

1. (chemistry) any theory in which all matter is composed of tiny discrete finite indivisible indestructible particles
   • the ancient Greek philosophers Democritus and Epicurus held atomic theories of the universe