# nuke

/ˈnuk/ (US) · /njˈuːk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nuke
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a nuclear weapon. People use this word in casual conversation when talking about atomic bombs or missiles.

For teachers: a nuclear weapon, such as a bomb or missile. Typically avoided in technical or diplomatic contexts.

## Examples

- The movie was about a group trying to stop a stolen nuke.
- During the Cold War, the fear of a nuke being launched kept the entire world in a state of constant tension.
- While the term is common in political thrillers and casual debate, military officials generally prefer more precise terminology like 'tactical warhead' or 'strategic asset' over the colloquial nuke.

## Usage notes

- Informal noun; often used in the plural when discussing global arsenals.

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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.