Nuclei: meaning, definitions and examples

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nuclei

 

[ ˈnjuː.kliː.aɪ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

science, biology

Nuclei are the plural form of nucleus, referring to the central part of an atom that contains protons and neutrons. In cell biology, the nucleus is the membrane-bound organelle that contains the cell's genetic material. Nuclei can also refer to a group of neurons in the central nervous system that serve a specific function.

Synonyms

centers, cores, nucleuses

Examples of usage

  • The nuclei of different elements have varying numbers of protons.
  • The cell nucleus controls gene expression.
  • Nuclei in the brain play a crucial role in regulating behavior.

Translations

Translations of the word "nuclei" in other languages:

🇵🇹 núcleos

🇮🇳 नाभिक

🇩🇪 Kerne

🇮🇩 inti

🇺🇦 ядра

🇵🇱 jądra

🇯🇵 

🇫🇷 noyaux

🇪🇸 núcleos

🇹🇷 çekirdekler

🇰🇷 

🇸🇦 نوى

🇨🇿 jádra

🇸🇰 jadrá

🇨🇳 

🇸🇮 jedra

🇮🇸 kjarni

🇰🇿 ядролар

🇬🇪 ბირთვები

🇦🇿 nüvələr

🇲🇽 núcleos

Word origin

The word 'nucleus' comes from the Latin term 'nucleus,' meaning 'kernel' or 'seed.' The term was first used in a scientific context in the early 19th century to describe the central part of an atom, following the discovery of the atom and its structure. As the understanding of atomic structure evolved, the term's usage expanded to include biological contexts, specifically in reference to cell biology. In the late 19th century, with advancements in microscopy and cell theory, the nucleus was identified as the control center of the cell, housing genetic material. The plural form 'nuclei' maintains the Latin retainment of structure and is commonly used in both scientific and educational contexts, particularly in biology, chemistry, and physics.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,442 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.