Nucleus Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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nucleus
[ˈnjuːklɪəs ]
Definitions
biology
The central and most important part of an object, movement, or group, forming the basis for its activity and growth.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| nucleus |
Used mainly in scientific or technical contexts to refer to the central part of an atom, cell, or system.
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| core |
Often used to describe the most important or central part of something, sometimes implying the hardest part or essence.
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| center |
Refers to the middle point or main area where activities occur; commonly used in general contexts.
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| heart |
Used to describe the vital or most important part of something; often has emotional or sentimental connotations.
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Examples of usage
- The nucleus of a cell contains genetic material.
- She is at the nucleus of the team, leading by example.
physics
The positively charged central core of an atom, consisting of protons and neutrons and containing nearly all its mass.
Synonyms
atomic nucleus, nuclear core.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| nucleus |
Generally used in both scientific and non-scientific contexts to refer to the central and most important part of something. Can relate to cells in biology or the core of an idea in discussions.
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| atomic nucleus |
Used specifically in physics and chemistry to describe the central part of an atom, which contains protons and neutrons.
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| nuclear core |
Often used in the context of nuclear physics and engineering, particularly when discussing nuclear reactors or the central part of a star.
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Examples of usage
- The nucleus of an atom is very tiny but extremely dense.
- The energy released from splitting an atom's nucleus is used in nuclear power plants.
astronomy
The central part of a comet, made up of solid particles that vaporize on approaching the sun to form a coma and tail.
Synonyms
comet core, cometary nucleus.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| nucleus |
This word has already been tagged above with the same definition. |
| cometary nucleus |
A specialized term in astronomy, referring to the solid, central part of a comet, made of rock, dust, and frozen gases.
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| comet core |
Primarily used in astronomy to describe the central part of a comet surrounded by a coma of gas and dust.
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Examples of usage
- The nucleus of a comet is typically composed of ice, dust, and rocky material.
- As a comet gets closer to the sun, its nucleus starts to vaporize and create a glowing coma.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In addition to biology, 'nucleus' describes the center of an atom, where protons and neutrons are packed tightly together.
- The cell nucleus is surrounded by a protective membrane called the nuclear envelope that controls what enters or leaves.
Literature
- In scientific literature, references to 'nucleus' often highlight its fundamental role across various fields, such as molecular biology and genetics.
- The concept of a nucleus has inspired numerous metaphors in literature, often symbolizing leadership or the core idea of a story.
Pop Culture
- The term has been used in movies and books to represent power sources or central elements, like in science fiction involving fusion or energy.
- In popular animations, characters sometimes gather around a 'nucleus' to represent unity and organization among diverse groups.
Psychology
- Metaphors of a nucleus can also be applied in psychology to describe the core beliefs that shape an individual's identity and behavior.
- Just as a nucleus organizes a cell, core values influence a person's decision-making processes.
Origin of 'nucleus'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'nucleus' comes from the Latin word for 'kernel' or 'seed,' showing its role as the core part of something.
- In the late 19th century, scientists began using the term specifically to refer to the core of a cell in biology.
The word 'nucleus' originated from the Latin word 'nuculeus', which means 'little nut'. In the 18th century, it was first used in the context of biology to refer to the central part of a cell. The term was later adopted in physics and astronomy to describe the central core of an atom or comet. The concept of a nucleus as a central and essential part has been fundamental in various scientific fields.