noun
- philosophers or scientists who believe that all matter is composed of tiny, indivisible particles called atoms
Usage: philosophy; science
Examples
- Ancient Greek atomists like Democritus proposed that everything was made of atoms.
- The atomists challenged the prevailing theories about the nature of matter.
- Modern atomists built upon the work of early philosophers to develop atomic theory.
- Epicurus was one of the most famous atomists in ancient philosophy.
- The atomists believed that atoms moved randomly through empty space.
- Early atomists faced criticism from other philosophers who rejected their theories.