— atomization , n.
/at"euh muyz'/ , v. , atomized, atomizing .
v.t.
1. to reduce to atoms.
2. to reduce to fine particles or spray.
3. to destroy (a target) by bombing, esp. with an atomic bomb.
v.i.
4. to split into many sections, groups, factions, etc.; fragmentize: Critics say the group has atomized around several leaders.
Also, esp. Brit., atomise .
[ 1670-80; ATOM + -IZE ]