a body having finite mass and internal structure but negligible dimensions
"In theoretical physics, the system treats the star as a particle by considering its significant mass while ignoring its vast physical size."
a function word that can be used in English to form phrasal verbs
"In the phrase 'give up', the word 'up' functions as a particle that completes the verb's meaning."
A very small piece of matter, a fragment; especially, the smallest possible part of something.
"The scientist used an electron microscope to observe individual particles of dust floating in the air."
In plain English: A particle is any extremely small piece of matter that makes up everything around you, even though it's too tiny to see with your eyes.
"The scientist studied how tiny particles behave under strong magnets."
Usage: Use this word to describe tiny fragments or fundamental units of physical matter rather than abstract concepts like ideas or emotions. It is often confused with "grain" when referring to food textures, but implies a much smaller scale and scientific precision.
The word comes from the Latin particula, meaning a small part or particle. It is a diminutive form derived from pars, which means part or piece.