control rod

noun

plural control rods

: a rod of a neutron-absorbing material (such as boron carbide) used to regulate the rate of nuclear fission in a reactor

Examples of control rod in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The goal is to validate the reactor's computational physics models, core geometry, control rod performance, and initial neutronic behavior without generating significant thermal energy or requiring active coolant flow. — David Szondy june 08, New Atlas, 8 June 2026

The reactor pressure vessel also provides a path for coolant to flow and helps guide the movement of the control rods. — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 24 Feb. 2026

Backup diesel generators roared to life, and large control rods slid into the reactor core to halt the fission reaction driving the plant’s energy production. — Anika Jane Beamer, Wired News, 13 Dec. 2025

The control rods would then withdraw from the reactor, and a small neutron source like californium-252 would kick off the reaction. — Emily Waltz, IEEE Spectrum, 22 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for control rod

• amphipod
• arthropod
• copepod
• decapod
• endopod
• escalade
• esplanade
• exopod
• gastropod
• goldenrod
• isopod
• ostracod