Definition

Nuclei is the plural form of the noun nucleus. It refers to more than one nucleus, which is a central or core part of something.

1. Central part: A core or focal point around which other parts are grouped or organized.
2. Biology: The membrane-bound organelle within a cell that contains the genetic material (DNA) and controls cellular activities.
3. Physics: The positively charged central core of an atom, composed of protons and neutrons.
4. General: A fundamental or essential part of a larger structure or system.

Usage Examples

• (The central cores of atoms.)
• (The cell organelles containing DNA.)
• (The central, core groups of the movement.)
• (The central hubs or focal points.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be the nuclei of": to serve as the central or most important part of something.
  • The new research center will be the nuclei of scientific innovation in the area. (It will be the core focus of innovation.)
• "nuclei of condensation": in meteorology, tiny particles (like dust or salt) around which water vapor condenses to form clouds.
  • Clouds form when water vapor collects around nuclei of condensation. (Small particles act as starting points for cloud formation.)

Variants and Related Words

• Nucleus (n, singular): the singular form of nuclei.
  • The nucleus of the cell is clearly visible under the microscope. (The single central organelle.)
• Nuclear (adj): relating to the nucleus of an atom or cell.
  • Nuclear energy is generated from atomic reactions. (Energy from atomic nuclei.)
• Nucleate (v): to form or gather around a nucleus.
  • The solution began to nucleate, forming small crystals. (Crystals started to form around a central point.)

Synonyms

• Cores: the central or most important parts of something.
• Centers: points around which something revolves or is concentrated.
• Hubs: central points of activity or interest.

Related Idioms

• "The nucleus of an idea": the essential or starting point of a concept.
  • The proposal was just the nucleus of an idea, but it grew into a full plan. (The basic, core idea.)
• "To be the nucleus of a group": to be the central, unifying member of a team or organization.
  • She was the nucleus of the friend group, always organizing gatherings. (The central person who held the group together.)