nuclei Definition

nuclei nucleus

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nucleus
noun nuclei

1. physics.
The positively charged tiny central part of an atom, consisting of neutrons and protons and surrounded by electrons.
2. biol.
The central part of a plant or animal cell, containing genetic material.
3. chem.
A stable group of atoms in a molecule acting as a base for the formation of compounds.
4. chem.
A small particle acting as the basis on which crystals can grow.
5. A core round which things accumulate.

Thesaurus: essence, core, gist, kernel, crux, centre, hub, pivot, focus, matter, nub.

Etymology: 18c, meaning ‘a central part': Latin, meaning ‘kernel'.