Langimage
English

nuke

|nuke|

B2

🇺🇸

/nuːk/

🇬🇧

/njuːk/

nuclear destruction

Etymology
Etymology Information

'nuke' originates from the word 'nuclear,' specifically referring to nuclear weapons or energy.

Historical Evolution

'nuclear' was shortened to 'nuke' in the mid-20th century, reflecting its association with nuclear weapons.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred to nuclear weapons, but it evolved to include the act of microwaving food.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a nuclear weapon or device.

The country has a stockpile of nukes.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to attack or destroy with nuclear weapons.

They threatened to nuke the enemy base.

Synonyms

Verb 2

to heat or cook food in a microwave oven.

I just need to nuke my lunch for a minute.

Synonyms

Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45