HealthAugust 20, 2026

particulate

par-TIK-yuh-lit

Definition

Relating to or consisting of minute, discrete particles of matter, typically those that cause pollution or remain suspended in the air.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'particula', meaning 'little part' or 'particle', which evolved through Middle French to describe substances existing in tiny, separate pieces.

In the news

The article highlights how reducing traffic decreases tire particulate matter in the air, emphasizing that roads are a source of significant public health risks.

Public transit is a public health solution

Read the full article ↗

The Washington Post

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