il nucleare

Definition & meaning

Nucleare means nuclear. It can refer to:

• The nucleus of an atom, especially in connection with energy, radiation or weapons.
• The nucleus of a cell in biology.
• A central core or nucleus, as in a family unit.

As a masculine noun, il nucleare means nuclear energy or nuclear power in general.

Grammar & Word origin

Nucleare is an adjective with the same singular form for masculine and feminine nouns. Its plural is nucleari.

It comes from nucleo (“nucleus” or “core”), ultimately from Latin nucleus, meaning “kernel.”

Synonyms & antonyms

• atomico ↗ — “atomic.” Often similar in contexts involving energy or weapons, but it refers to the atom rather than specifically to its nucleus.
• convenzionale ↗ — “conventional.” It can contrast with nucleare when describing weapons or energy sources, though it is not a general antonym.

Common phrases & collocations

• energia nucleare ↗ — nuclear energy
• centrale nucleare ↗ — nuclear power plant
• arma nucleare ↗ — nuclear weapon
• nucleo familiare ↗ — family unit