# nucleic

/nuˈkɫeɪɪk/ (US) · /njuːklˈɪɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nucleic
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

relating to the nucleus of a cell or to the chemical substances that carry genetic information, like DNA and RNA.

For teachers: relating to the nucleus of a cell or to nucleic acids. Often used in biological contexts to describe the chemical structure or function of genetic material.

## Examples

- The scientist studied the nucleic acids in the sample.
- Researchers are investigating how nucleic acids can be used to repair damaged cells in the human body.
- The discovery of nucleic acids revolutionized our understanding of heredity, providing the molecular basis for how traits are passed from one generation to the next.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.