particulate

Etymology

From New Latin particulatus, from particula, diminutive of pars.

adj

1. Composed of separate particles.
   particulate air pollution
   particulate matter
2. (genetics) Pertaining to heritable characteristics which are attributable discretely to either one or another of an offspring's parents, rather than a blend of the two.
   The rudiments of particulate inheritance were dimly understood already by the breeders of cattle and apples, but nobody was being systematic. 1999, Matt Ridley, Genome, Harper Perennial, published 2004, page 41

noun

1. (chiefly in the plural) Any solid or liquid in a subdivided state, especially one that exhibits special characteristics which are negligible in the bulk material.
   Particulates in engine oil can abrade moving parts.