The small size of atoms which unite To make the
smallest particle of light. --Blackmore.
2. Any very small portion or part; the smallest portion; as,
he has not a particle of patriotism or virtue.
The houses had not given their commissioners
authority in the least particle to recede.
--Clarendon.
3. (R. C. Ch.)
(a) A crumb or little piece of concecrated host.
(b) The smaller hosts distributed in the communion of the
laity. --Bp. Fitzpatrick.
4. (Gram.) A subordinate word that is never inflected (a
preposition, conjunction, interjection); or a word that
can not be used except in compositions; as, ward in
backward, ly in lovely.