Definition

Proper noun 1. A city in southern Japan: A major urban center located on the island of Kyushu, historically significant as a prominent port and shipbuilding hub. 2. A site of atomic bombing: The city became the second populated area in history to be subjected to an atomic bomb attack, which occurred on August 9, 1945.

Usage Examples

• As a proper noun (geographical location):
  • Nagasaki is a beautiful city with a rich history of international trade.
  • The port of Nagasaki has been important for centuries.
• As a proper noun (historical event):
  • The bombing of Nagasaki led to Japan's surrender in World War II.
  • We studied the impact of the atomic bomb on Nagasaki.

Advanced Usage

• "the Nagasaki bomb": Refers specifically to the atomic weapon detonated over the city.
  • The Nagasaki bomb was code-named "Fat Man".
• "pre-war Nagasaki": Describes the city and its condition prior to the 1945 bombing.
  • Pre-war Nagasaki was a vibrant cultural center.

Variants and Related Words

• Nagasaki-style: An adjective form sometimes used to describe cultural or culinary items originating from the city.
  • Nagasaki-style champon is a famous noodle dish.

Synonyms

• City (in the general sense of an urban area).
• Target (specifically in the historical-military context of 1945).

Notes on Meaning

This word primarily functions as a proper noun denoting a specific place. Its meaning is inextricably linked to its dual identity: (1) as a living Japanese city with a long history, and (2) as a pivotal location in 20th-century world history and the development of nuclear warfare. The context of a sentence will immediately clarify which aspect is being referenced.

Noun

1. a city in southern Japan on Kyushu; a leading port and shipbuilding center; on August 9, 1945 Nagasaki became the second populated area to receive an atomic bomb