Nucleus

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /ˈnjuː.kli.É™s/
• GenAm IPA: /ˈnuːkliÉ™s/

Origin

From Latin nucleus ("kernel, core"), a diminutive of nux ("nut").

Full definition of nucleus

Noun

1. The core, central part (of something), round which others are assembled.
2. An initial part or version that will receive additions.This collection will form the nucleus of a new library.
3. (chemistry, physics) The massive, positively charged central part of an atom, made up of protons and neutrons.
4. (cytology) A large organelle found in cells which contains genetic material.
5. (neuroanatomy) A ganglion, cluster of many neuronal bodies where synapsing occurs.
6. (linguistics) The central part of a syllable, most commonly a vowel.

Derived terms

Anagrams

• nucules