nuclear
adjective
nu·cle·ar
ˈnü-klē-ər
ˈnyü-
nonstandard -kyə-lər
1
: of, relating to, or constituting a nucleus
Annexation of the suburban fringe by the nuclear metropolis …—W. H. Wickwar
2
a
: of or relating to the atomic nucleus
nuclear reaction
nuclear physics
b
: used in or produced by a nuclear reaction (such as fission)
nuclear fuel
nuclear waste
nuclear energy
c(1)
: being a weapon whose destructive power derives from an uncontrolled nuclear reaction
(2)
: of, produced by, or involving nuclear weapons
the nuclear age
nuclear war
(3)
: armed with nuclear weapons
nuclear powers
d
: of, relating to, or powered by nuclear energy
a nuclear submarine
the nuclear debate
a nuclear plant
see also:
How do you pronounce nuclear?: Usage Guide
Though disapproved of by many, pronunciations ending in \-kyə-lər\ have been found in widespread use among educated speakers including scientists, lawyers, professors, congressmen, U.S. cabinet members, and at least two U.S. presidents and one vice president. While most common in the U.S., these pronunciations have also been heard from British and Canadian speakers.
Video
'Mispronunciations' That May Be Fine
'Mischievous,' 'nuclear,' and other words to pronounce with caution.
Cite this Entry
“Nuclear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nuclear. Accessed 26 Jul. 2026.
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