fissile

[ fis-uhl ]

adjective

1. capable of being split or divided; cleavable.
2. Physics.
   1. fissionable.
   2. (of a nuclide) capable of undergoing fission induced by low-energy neutrons, as uranium 233 and 235.

fissile

/ ˈfɪsaɪl; fɪˈsɪlɪtɪ /

adjective

1. capable of undergoing nuclear fission as a result of the impact of slow neutrons
2. See fissionable
   another word for fissionable
3. tending to split or capable of being split

Derived Forms

• fissility, noun

Other Words From

• fis·sili·ty noun
• non·fissile adjective
• nonfis·sili·ty noun
• un·fissile adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of fissile¹

1655–65; < Latin fissilis, equivalent to fiss ( us ) ( fissi- ) + -ilis -ile

Word History and Origins

Origin of fissile¹

C17: from Latin fissilis , from fissus split; see fissi-

Example Sentences

North Korea claims to have converted the fissile material into nuclear weapons.

From The Daily Beast

We strongly support the early commencement of negotiations on a verifiable Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty.

From The Daily Beast

Cybersecurity is not like protecting a cannon or some nuclear fissile material.

From The Daily Beast

The cliffs of this island are composed of a fissile primitive rock, on which sandstone reposes in regular beds.

From Project Gutenberg

This mineral is fissile, and moderately hard, which renders it fit for their peculiar ripe sculptures.

From Project Gutenberg

The grits are of a fissile character, and are quarried extensively for flag-stone, ashlers, and fire-stone.

From Project Gutenberg

It is readily fissile, like slate, but powerfully resists the cross fracture, which is conchoidal.

From Project Gutenberg

Slate′-axe, a slater's tool, a sax; Slate′-clay, a fissile shale.

From Project Gutenberg