'nuclear-capable' originates from the combination of 'nuclear,' derived from the Latin word 'nucleus,' meaning 'kernel' or 'core,' and 'capable,' from the Latin 'capabilis,' meaning 'able to hold or contain.'

'Nuclear' evolved from the Latin 'nucleus' through French 'nucléaire,' while 'capable' transitioned from Latin 'capabilis' through Old French 'capable.'

Initially, 'nuclear' referred to the core of an atom, but it evolved to include the context of nuclear weapons. 'Capable' has retained its meaning of ability or capacity.