nuclear
NYOO-kleer
Nuclear (adj) means relating to the nucleus of an atom, or to energy released by splitting or joining atomic nuclei. Example: “Engineers monitor the nuclear reactor around the clock to keep it running safely.”
adj
1
Relating to the nucleus of an atom, or to energy released by splitting or joining atomic nuclei.
"Engineers monitor the nuclear reactor around the clock to keep it running safely."
"The country relies heavily on nuclear power for its electricity."
"Nuclear fusion powers the sun."
2
Relating to weapons that use nuclear reactions to cause massive destruction.
"Many people hope that countries will one day give up their nuclear weapons."
"The documentary explains why nuclear weapons treaties matter to so many countries."
"World leaders met to discuss reducing their nuclear arsenals."
How to use nuclear
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRelating to the core of an atom, atomic energy, or atomic weapons.
Common mistake
Often mispronounced as "nucular" — the correct pronunciation stresses "new-clear."
Common pairings
nuclear power
nuclear weapon
nuclear family
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like nuclear.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- nuclears
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Engineers monitor the _____ reactor around the clock to keep it running safely.
Etymology
From "nucleus" + "-ar," ultimately from Latin nucleus, "kernel" — the tiny dense core at the centre of an atom.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for nuclear
See all rhymes for nuclear →Frequently asked questions
What does “nuclear” mean?
The word “nuclear” means relating to the nucleus of an atom, or to energy released by splitting or joining atomic nuclei. In plain terms, relating to the core of an atom, atomic energy, or atomic weapons.
How do you pronounce “nuclear”?
“Nuclear” is pronounced NYOO-kleer (/ˈn(j)u.kli.ɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “nuclear” in a sentence?
Here is “nuclear” used in a sentence: “The country relies heavily on nuclear power for its electricity.”
What part of speech is “nuclear”?
“Nuclear” is an adjective.
Where does the word “nuclear” come from?
The word “nuclear” comes from Latin. From "nucleus" + "-ar," ultimately from Latin nucleus, "kernel" — the tiny dense core at the centre of an atom.
Is “nuclear” a common word?
“Nuclear” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “nuclear” have?
“Nuclear” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to the nucleus of an atom, or to energy released by splitting or joining atomic nuclei.
What is the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?
Both release nuclear energy but in opposite ways. Fission splits a heavy atomic nucleus, such as uranium, into smaller pieces — the process used in today's power stations. Fusion joins light nuclei, such as hydrogen, into heavier ones, releasing even more energy. Fusion is how the Sun shines, and scientists are still working to harness it on Earth.
What is nuclear energy used for?
Its best-known use is generating electricity, where heat from splitting atoms boils water to drive steam turbines. The same principles power some submarines and ships, and produce medical isotopes used in scans and cancer treatment. The technology also underlies nuclear weapons, which is why it is so tightly regulated worldwide.
Is nuclear power good or bad?
It depends on how you weigh the trade-offs. Nuclear power generates large amounts of low-carbon electricity without burning fossil fuels, a real advantage for the climate. The drawbacks are radioactive waste, high building costs, and the risk of serious accidents. Most experts treat it as one useful option among many, rather than simply good or bad.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include nuclear:
