adj

nuclear

NYOO-kleer

adj

Relating to the nucleus of an atom, or to energy released by splitting or joining atomic nuclei.

"The country relies heavily on nuclear power for its electricity."

"Nuclear fusion powers the sun."

Relating to weapons that use nuclear reactions to cause massive destruction.

"World leaders met to discuss reducing their nuclear arsenals."

How to Use Nuclear

Learner’s notes

In 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

nuclears plural

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The country relies heavily on _____ power for its electricity.

From "nucleus" + "-ar," ultimately from Latin nucleus, "kernel" — the tiny dense core at the centre of an atom.

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