nucleus

/ˈnjuːkliːəs/

Definitions

1. noun

The central or most important part of something.

“The nucleus of the city was a vibrant shopping district.”

2. noun

The central part of an atom, consisting of protons and neutrons.

“The nucleus of the atom is made up of protons and neutrons.”

3. noun

The cell nucleus, which contains the genetic material.

“The nucleus of the cell is where DNA replication occurs.”

4. noun

A group of people or things at the center of an activity or movement.

“The nucleus of the protest was a group of passionate activists.”

5. verb

To form a nucleus or central part.

“The city nucleus grew rapidly around the new business district.”

Synonyms

  • center
  • core

Antonyms

  • periphery