Pronunciation

/ˈnuːkliər/

Definitions

• Adjective: Relating to the nucleus of an atom; atomic. For example: “Nuclear energy is generated by the fission of uranium atoms.”

  • Also used metaphorically for anything having a central or fundamental role: “The nuclear family consists of parents and their children.”

• Noun: A nuclear weapon or device. For example: “The threat of a nuclear war loomed over the region.”

Phrases

• “Nuclear energy”: The energy released from the nucleus of an atom, typically through nuclear reactions like fission or fusion.
• “Nuclear family”: A social unit consisting of two parents and their children, considered as a basic unit in society.
• “Nuclear option”: A strategy that may have extreme or far-reaching consequences, often used in political contexts to refer to a decisive but risky move.

Example Sentences

• Adjective: “The country is investing heavily in nuclear power generation to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.”
• Noun: “The international community has been working tirelessly towards global disarmament of nuclear weapons.”

Synonyms

• Atomic (adj.)
• Nuclear-powered (adj.)
• Thermonuclear (adj., referring specifically to fusion reactions)
• Nuclear bomb/bombardment (n.)
• Nuclear reactor/fusion reactor (n.)