nuclear weapon

American  

[noo-klee-er wep-uhn, nyoo-] / ˈnu kli ər ˈwɛp ən, ˈnyu- /

noun

1. an explosive device whose destructive potential derives from the release of energy that accompanies the splitting or combining of atomic nuclei.

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nuclear weapon Scientific  

1. A weapon whose destructive power comes from nuclear energy; an atomic bomb or a hydrogen bomb.

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nuclear weapon Cultural  

1. Any weapon that employs a nuclear reaction for its explosive power. Nuclear weapons include ballistic missiles, bombs (see atomic bomb (see also atomic bomb) and hydrogen bomb), artillery rounds, and mines.

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Pronunciation

See nuclear ( def. ).

Etymology

Origin of nuclear weapon

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Despite the tensions, Rubio said there was broad global agreement that Iran should never be allowed to retain a nuclear weapon and that it should lift its blockade on the Strait of Hormuz.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

The Pope has not said he supports Iran having a nuclear weapon.

From BBC • May 5, 2026

"A nuclear weapon should never be allowed to be used by anybody."

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

Vance blamed the breakdown on Iran’s lack of commitment over seeking a nuclear weapon or the tools to allow it to build one quickly.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 12, 2026

For example, four Russian submarines prowled the waters near Cuba, each one carrying a torpedo loaded with a nuclear weapon.

From "Spies: The Secret Showdown Between America and Russia" by Marc Favreau

Related Words

• atomic bomb
• hydrogen bomb
• neutron bomb