control rod

noun

1. a neutron-absorbing material, as boron or cadmium, in the shape of a rod or other configuration, that can be moved into or out of the core of a nuclear reactor to regulate the rate of fission.

control rod

noun

1. one of a number of rods or tubes containing a neutron absorber, such as boron, that can be inserted into or retracted from the core of a nuclear reactor in order to control its rate of reaction

Word History and Origins

Origin of control rod¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Throttle Control Rod—Oil or grease all accelerator connections.

From Project Gutenberg