nucleus

Meaning

The central core of an atom containing protons and neutrons.

The central and most important part of something, forming the basis for its activity and growth; in biology, the central part of a cell.

Example Sentences

The nucleus consists of protons.

The nucleus of the atom contains protons and neutrons.

Example Expressions

the nucleus of the idea

Synonyms

core, center, hub, heart, kernel

Entry 1

core, center

Entry 2

core, center, hub, heart, kernel

Antonyms

periphery, outside, exterior

Entry 1

periphery, outside

Entry 2

periphery, exterior, outside

Collocations

atomic nucleus, cell nucleus, nucleus of an idea, nucleus of a group