Definition

Noun: * Atomic Energy Commission: A proper noun referring to a specific former U.S. government agency. It was an executive agency that existed from 1946 to 1974. Its primary responsibilities were overseeing and conducting research into atomic energy, including both its military applications and its development for peaceful, civilian purposes.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The AEC was established after World War II to manage the nation's atomic energy program.
  • Much of the early research into nuclear power plants was supervised by the AEC.
  • In 1974, the functions of the AEC were divided between new agencies.

Advanced Usage

• The term AEC is almost exclusively used in historical, political, or technical contexts discussing U.S. nuclear policy and development during the mid-20th century.
• It is commonly preceded by the definite article "the" (e.g., "the AEC").

Variants and Related Words

• ERDA (Energy Research and Development Administration): The agency that succeeded part of the AEC's functions in 1974.
• NRC (Nuclear Regulatory Commission): One of the agencies created in 1974 to take over the AEC's regulatory responsibilities.
• DOE (Department of Energy): The cabinet-level department established in 1977 that absorbed ERDA and now oversees energy policy, including nuclear energy.

Synonyms

• Atomic Energy Commission (This is the full form; AEC is the acronym/initialism).

Notes on Meaning

• AEC is an acronym. As a proper noun, it refers specifically to the United States Atomic Energy Commission. It should not be confused with other organizations that may share the same initials (e.g., the Australian Electoral Commission).
• Its meaning is fixed and historical, referring to the agency that existed during the specified time period.

Noun

1. a former executive agency (from 1946 to 1974) that was responsible for research into atomic energy and its peacetime uses in the United States