nuclear power

American  

[noo-klee-er pou-er, nyoo-] / ˈnu kli ər ˈpaʊ ər, ˈnju- /

noun

1. power derived from nuclear energy.

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nuclear power British  

noun

1. Also called: atomic power.  power, esp electrical or motive, produced by a nuclear reactor

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nuclear power Cultural  

1. The electrical power generated by a nuclear reactor.

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Pronunciation

See nuclear ( def. ).

Etymology

Origin of nuclear power

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

For more than a decade, the U.S. intelligence community has assessed that Iran sought a threshold nuclear capability, securing the strategic advantages of a nuclear power without incurring the costs of openly pursuing a bomb.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 18, 2026

That’s likely to boost other energy sources such as coal, renewables and nuclear power, especially if the Iranians make good on threats to eventually charge fees for Hormuz transit, said Sarah Emerson with ESAI.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 18, 2026

It contains special properties that can be used to fuel nuclear power plants, but also help develop nuclear weapons.

From BBC • Jun. 13, 2026

The U.S. nuclear power industry is experiencing renewed interest amid rising electricity demand, climate concerns and tech-sector needs.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

This place feels like the eerie, abandoned suburban neighborhoods that surround nuclear power plant leaks.

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman

Related Words

• atomic energy