nuclear weapon


noun

an explosive device whose destructive potential derives from the release of energy that accompanies the splitting or combining of atomic nuclei.

Origin of nuclear weapon

First recorded in 1945–50

Scientific definitions for nuclear weapon

nuclear weapon

A weapon whose destructive power comes from nuclear energy; an atomic bomb or a hydrogen bomb.

Cultural definitions for nuclear weapon

nuclear weapon

Any weapon that employs a nuclear reaction for its explosive power. Nuclear weapons include ballistic missiles, bombs (see atomic bomb (see also atomic bomb) and hydrogen bomb), artillery rounds, and mines.