nuclear physics

[noo-klee-er fiz-iks, nyoo-] / ˈnu kli ər ˈfɪz ɪks, ˈnyu- /

NOUN

atomic science

Synonyms

STRONGEST

particle physics quantum mechanics

WEAK

atomic physics atomics atomistics atomology nucleonics quantum physics

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This holds the same profound implications for defense and intelligence today as nuclear physics did 80 years ago.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

This surprising finding led to the discovery of polonium and radium and helped establish the field of nuclear physics and chemistry.

From Science Daily • Mar. 14, 2026

Pearcey, who has doctorate in nuclear physics, has been a prominent local campaigner.

From BBC • Jan. 30, 2026

It’s going from social media and crypto into nuclear physics.

From Barron's • Dec. 19, 2025

The neutron and deuterium were both discoveries from that miraculous year of 1932, when nuclear physics gave up some of its greatest secrets.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik