Origin: Latin suffix -ate
Particulate has 4 different meanings across 2 categories:
a small discrete mass of solid or liquid matter that remains individually dispersed in gas or liquid emissions (usually considered to be an atmospheric pollutant)
"The air quality report warned that high levels of particulate matter from nearby construction sites were causing respiratory issues for the neighborhood residents."
Any solid or liquid in a subdivided state, especially one that exhibits special characteristics which are negligible in the bulk material.
"The air quality report warned that high levels of particulate matter from construction dust were causing respiratory issues for nearby residents."
composed of distinct particles
"The new air filter was designed specifically to trap particulate matter from the exhaust fumes before it could circulate through the cabin."
Composed of separate particles.
"The new air filter is designed to trap every particulate from cigarette smoke before it circulates through the room."