fission

/ˈfɪʃən/

Definitions

1. noun

the process in which an atomic nucleus splits into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy

“The scientists studied the nuclear fission process in the reactor.”

2. noun

a splitting or division, especially of a group or organization

“The party underwent a fission and now there are two separate factions.”

3. verb

to split or divide something, especially an organization or a group

“The company is going to fission its business into two separate parts.”

4. verb

to undergo nuclear fission

“The atom will fission under the intense heat and radiation.”

Synonyms

  • division
  • scission
  • separation
  • split

Antonyms

  • fusion
  • merger