particulate

[ per-tik-yuh-lit, -leyt, puh-tik-, pahr- ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or composed of distinct particles.

noun

1. a separate and distinct particle.
2. a material composed of such particles.
3. particulates,
   1. the aggregate of such particles, especially as produced by one source:

      tests to analyze diesel particulates.

   2. Meteorology. solid or liquid particles suspended in the atmosphere, especially pollutants.

particulate

/ -ˌleɪt; pɑːˈtɪkjʊlɪt /

noun

1. a substance consisting of separate particles

adjective

1. of or made up of separate particles
2. genetics of, relating to, or designating inheritance of characteristics, esp with emphasis on the role of genes

particulate

/ pər-tĭk′yə-lĭt /

Adjective

1. Formed of very small, separate particles. Dust and soot are forms of particulate matter.

Noun

1. A very small particle, as of dust or soot. Particulates that are given off by the burning of oil, gasoline, and other fuels can remain suspended in the atmosphere for long periods, where they are a major component of air pollution and smog.
2. A substance or suspension composed of such particles, such as sand or smoke.

Other Words From

• nonpar·ticu·late adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of particulate¹

1870–75; < New Latin particulātus, equivalent to Latin particul ( a ) particle + -ātus -ate ¹

Example Sentences

Mega-dairies are among the largest ammonia emitters, contributing to fine particulate matter pollution that causes respiratory illnesses and premature death.

From Los Angeles Times

They found that the new footpaths encouraged 9% to 27% of the surveyed respondents to walk instead of using motorized transport, which led to a reduction in greenhouse gases and particulate matter.

From BBC

In this, the researchers show that measures to combat slash-and-burn techniques significantly reduce the concentration of particulate matter in the air.

From Science Daily

Levels of larger particulate matter - PM 10 - reached an average of 495, more than 10 times the daily amount considered safe by the WHO.

From BBC

The level of fine particulate matter in the air, the most damaging to health, also soared well into hazardous levels.

From BBC

Related Words

• crude
• grainy
• harsh