v.
Pronunciation: ' a-t ə - ˌ m ī z
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form: -ized ; -iz · ing
Date: 1845
1 : to treat as made up of many discrete units
2 : to reduce to minute particles or to a fine spray
3 : DIVIDE , FRAGMENT <an atomized society> also : to deprive of meaningful ties to others < atomized individuals>
4 : to subject to attack by nuclear weapons
– at · om · i · za · tion \ ˌ a-t ə -m ə - ' z ā -sh ə n \ noun