WordValenucleus
the dense central core of an atom or a cell
In more detail
1. (noun) the central part of an atom, made of protons and neutrons
2. (noun) the central part of a cell that controls its activities
3. (noun) the central or most important part of something
Examples
- 1. The nucleus of an atom is very small but contains most of its mass.
- 2. The nucleus controls whether a cell will divide and grow.
- 3. A small group of experienced staff formed the nucleus of the new company.
How to use nucleus
Nucleus is used in scientific and technical contexts (physics, biology) to denote a literal central structure, and also metaphorically in formal contexts to mean the most important or central part of something. It is more formal and precise than casual synonyms like 'core' or 'heart', and often appears in academic and professional writing.
Common phrases
- atomic nucleus
- cell nucleus
- nucleus of the problem
- the nucleus of a group
- nucleus accumbens
Synonyms
core · center · heart · crux · kernel
Word family
nuclear (adjective) · nuclei (plural noun) · nucleated (adjective) · nucleate (verb)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse the plural form; the standard plural is 'nuclei' (not 'nucleuses'), though 'nucleuses' is occasionally used in informal contexts.
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