nuclear

nuclear is on the Academic Word List.

Word parts

nucleus + -ar

Pronunciation

• (Canada) IPA ^(key): /ˈn(j)ukliɚ/

• Audio (CA)

  (file)

• (UK) IPA ^(key): /ˈnjuː.klɪə/

• Audio (UK)

  (file)

• (US) IPA ^(key): /ˈn(j)ukliɚ/ or /ˈn(j)ukjəlɚ/ (see usage notes)

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Adjective

Positive nuclear

Comparative more nuclear

Superlative most nuclear

1. Nuclear weapons, power, waste, etc. is produced by the collision of more than one nucleus, the central part of an atom.

   Japan relies mainly on nuclear power (atomic energy) generation for its energy needs.

   The US has more nuclear weapons than any other country. Many of them are called atomic bombs.

   Most Canadians live in a nuclear family: the husband, wife, and children.

Usage notes

• The pronunciation /nukjəlɚ/ is common but not standard.