adjective [not
gradable] 1. being or using the power produced when the nucleus of an atom is divided or joined to another nucleus
nuclear energy/power
a nuclear power plant
a nuclear reactor
the nuclear industry
No one has yet solved the problem of how to get rid of nuclear waste (=unwanted, dangerously
radioactive material made when producing nuclear power).
See also nuclear at nucleus.
2. Nuclear is also used to refer to (the use of) weapons which use the power produced when the nucleus of
an atom is divided or joined to another nucleus.
nuclear weapons
a nuclear war
a nuclear attack
nuclear disarmament
There must be a possibility that a conventional war could go nuclear.
How many nations have a nuclear capability (=have nuclear weapons)?
Would the human race survive a nuclear holocaust (=a war with nuclear weapons that destroys almost
everything)?
3. A nuclear-free area is one in which nuclear weapons and nuclear energy are not allowed.
The city has declared itself a nuclear-free zone.
4. A nuclear winter is a period that scientists believe would follow a large nuclear explosion, when there would be very little light or heat and nothing would grow in the world.