German word

Atom

Pronunciation

IPA/aˈtoːm/

Meaning

  • neuter nounatom

Example

Viele Atome bilden ein Molekül.

Many atoms form a molecule.

Illustration for Atom (atom)

More examples

Die Debatte um Atomkraft ist intensiv.

The debate over nuclear power is intense.

Core concept

A microscopic element unit that can join other atoms to form larger chemical structures.

Common phrases

  • Atomkraft

    nuclear power

  • Atomenergie

    nuclear energy

  • Atomwaffe

    nuclear weapon

Similar words

Molekül: A chemical unit made of two or more atoms joined by chemical bonds.
Ion: A particle with a positive or negative electric charge from gaining or losing electrons.
Element: A substance made of one kind of atom and listed on the periodic table.
Elektron: A tiny negatively charged particle that surrounds an atom and can move during reactions.

Definition in German

Ein grundlegender Baustein der Materie, der bei chemischen Reaktionen die kleinste Einheit bildet, die noch die Identität eines Elements trägt.

Word origin

The scientific noun Atom was borrowed into German as part of modern European scientific vocabulary, retaining the ancient idea of something indivisible.

Usage tips

  • German Atom has final stress, approximately ah-TOHM, unlike the usual English pronunciation of atom.

Related words

  • Atommachtnuclear powernoun
  • atomaratomicadjective

Word lists with this word