particulate
par-TIK-yuh-lit
/pərˈtɪkjələt/
Matter in the form of minute separate particles, especially as a pollutant in the atmosphere.
Specifically refers to solid or liquid matter suspended in the air (like soot or dust), rather than gaseous pollutants.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'particula', meaning a tiny part. It entered scientific English in the late 19th century to describe the microscopic solids found in smoke and dust that could be inhaled into the lungs.
Word relationships
- particle: A general term, whereas particulate is almost always used in a scientific or environmental context.
- gas: Particulates are solids or liquids, while gases are a different state of matter.
Commonly confused with
- particle: Particulate is usually a collective noun or adjective for pollution; particle is a single unit.
Word family
- particle (noun): A minute portion of matter.
Collocations
- particulate matter
- fine particulate
- particulate emission
Example sentences
- "The study measured the concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the subway system." Scientific report on air quality.
- "The air was thick with particulate matter from the nearby coal-fired power plant." A classic environmental text.
Memory hook
Think of 'particular' small 'particles' that are 'late' to settle on the ground, staying in the air instead. Microscopic specks that stay in the air.
When not to use
Do not use for general 'pieces' of something; use 'particle' for non-environmental contexts.
Fun facts
- The most dangerous particulates are PM2.5, which are 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair.
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