An atomic operation is one that can be performed in a single step without being tasked-out or interrupted. An atomic test-and-set operation is typically used for implementing semaphores.

adj. Really, really good. Even better than Da Bomb.

Grouping a number of operations together such that either all of them occur, or none of them do. See atomic change transaction.

(weapons) deriving destructive energy from the release of atomic energy; "nuclear war"; "nuclear weapons"; "atomic bombs"