Nuke: meaning, definitions and examples
💣
nuke
[ njuːk ]
nuclear weapon
A nuke is an informal term for a nuclear weapon. This type of explosive device releases energy through nuclear reactions, typically fission or a combination of fission and fusion. Nukes are among the most powerful weapons on Earth, capable of devastating entire cities and affecting the environment for generations. Their use has been a critical point in international relations and military strategy since their development during World War II.
Synonyms
atomic bomb, nuclear bomb, thermonuclear device
Examples of usage
- The threat of a nuke changed global politics.
- Countries are often in discussions about nuclear disarmament to reduce nuke stockpiles.
- She expressed concern about the potential fallout from a nuke.
to destroy
To nuke something means to destroy it completely or to use a nuclear weapon against it. In informal contexts, it can also refer to using a microwave to heat food quickly. The verb form conveys a sense of total annihilation in a casual manner. The word has also been used in various contexts in pop culture, often humorously.
Synonyms
destroy, eradicate, obliterate
Examples of usage
- They decided to nuke the old building instead of renovating it.
- I nuked my leftovers for lunch.
- The plan was to nuke the competition with their new marketing strategy.
Translations
Translations of the word "nuke" in other languages:
🇵🇹 bomba nuclear
🇮🇳 नुक्लियर बम
🇩🇪 Atomwaffe
🇮🇩 senjata nuklir
🇺🇦 ядерна зброя
🇵🇱 broń jądrowa
🇯🇵 核兵器
🇫🇷 arme nucléaire
🇪🇸 arma nuclear
🇹🇷 nükleer silah
🇰🇷 핵무기
🇸🇦 سلاح نووي
🇨🇿 jaderná zbraň
🇸🇰 jadrová zbraň
🇨🇳 核武器
🇸🇮 jedrsko orožje
🇮🇸 kjarnorku
🇰🇿 ядролық қару
🇬🇪 ბირთვული იარაღი
🇦🇿 nüvə silahı
🇲🇽 arma nuclear
Etymology
The term 'nuke' is derived from the word 'nuclear', which comes from the Latin 'nucleus', meaning 'kernel' or 'core'. The first known usage of 'nuke' in the sense of a nuclear weapon dates back to the early 1950s, during the Cold War era. As nuclear technology developed, so did the slang surrounding it. Initially, the term was used mainly in military and scientific contexts, but over time, it filtered into popular culture. Today, 'nuke' is commonly used in various informal settings, sometimes even to refer to microwaving food. The proliferation of nuclear arms and their impact on global politics has kept the term relevant, evoking images of power and destruction.