Nuked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nuked

[njuหkd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

military action

The term 'nuked' is derived from the verb 'nuke,' which refers to the act of destroying something completely using nuclear weapons. This expression has gained popularity in military vernacular to denote overwhelming force or complete annihilation. Besides its literal meaning, 'nuked' can also be used in a more casual context to mean totally defeated or overwhelmed. In its metaphorical use, it often describes situations where something has been significantly damaged or impacted.

Synonyms

annihilated, destroyed, devastated, obliterated.

Examples of usage

  • The city was nuked during the war.
  • They nuked the enemy base to ensure complete destruction.
  • After the argument, he felt emotionally nuked.
  • The old building was nuked before the new construction.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term originates from the word 'nuclear,' which refers to the nucleus of an atom, central to nuclear reactions.
  • The first use of nuclear weapons in warfare was during World War II, when the United States dropped bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.
  • The Cold War era saw the formation of treaties aimed at reducing nuclear arsenals, starting with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty in 1968.

Science

  • The energy released by nuclear weapons comes from splitting or fusing atomic nuclei, a process known as nuclear fission or fusion.
  • Nuclear explosions can release energy equivalent to thousands of tons of TNT, resulting in devastating blasts and severe radiation.
  • The fallout from a nuclear explosion can affect the environment for decades, contaminating air, water, and soil.

Pop Culture

  • Nuclear weapons have been a central theme in many films, including the 1983 movie 'WarGames,' which explored the dangers of nuclear warfare.
  • Video games like 'Fallout' and 'Call of Duty' often depict post-apocalyptic scenarios involving nuclear conflicts.
  • Songs like '99 Red Balloons' address the fear and absurdity of nuclear war, reflecting societal anxieties during the Cold War.

Psychology

  • Fear of nuclear war can create a sense of anxiety known as 'nuclear dread,' influencing mental health and public policy.
  • The concept of a 'nuclear apocalypse' has impacted cultural narratives, leading to widespread discussions about survival and ethics.
  • Children growing up during the Cold War were often taught about 'duck and cover' drills in response to potential nuclear threats.

Literature

  • Books like 'On the Beach' by Nevil Shute explore themes of post-nuclear war survival, emphasizing human resilience.
  • The dystopian genre often features nuclear conflict as a central theme, as seen in George Orwell's '1984' and Ray Bradbury's 'Fahrenheit 451.'
  • Poetry about nuclear war reflects the emotional impact, such as works by writers like and W.H. Auden, addressing the societal consequences.

Origin of 'nuked'

The word 'nuke' comes from the early 1940s, originally from the slang term 'nuclear.' It became widely used in the context of military actions following World War II, particularly after the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. The term was popularized as the United States and other nations began developing nuclear weaponry during the Cold War, leading to a new era of global politics. Over time, 'nuke' evolved in everyday language to encompass both literal and metaphorical destruction, making its way into cultural references in movies, literature, and informal conversations. Today, the term reflects both the grave consequences of nuclear warfare and a more casual usage in various contexts.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,045, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.