1.noun(chiefly in 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."
2.adjectiveComposed of separate particles.
"particulate air pollution"
3.adjectivePertaining to heritable characteristics which are attributable discretely to either one or another of an offspring's parents, rather than a blend of the two.