Main Entry: fis·sion

Pronunciation: \ˈfish-ən also ˈfizh-\

Function: noun

1 : a method of reproduction in which a living cell or body divides into two or more parts each of which grows into a whole new individual
2 a : cleavage 2 b : the splitting of an atomic nucleus resulting in the release of large amounts of energy—called also nuclear fission

—fis·sion verb, fis·sioned; fis·sion·ing \ˈfish-(ə-)niŋ also ˈfizh-\

—fis·sion·al \ˈfish-ən-^əl also ˈfizh-\ adjective