nucleus
Definitions
The dense central part of an atom, made of protons and neutrons.
原子核。
The central part of a cell that contains its genetic material.
细胞核。
The central or most important part of a group around which others gather.
核心；中心（一群人或事物围绕的中心）。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedStraight from Latin nucleus, 'kernel / little nut' (a diminutive of nux, 'nut'). The image is the small, hard core inside a shell. Biologists borrowed it for the core of a cell, then physicists for the core of an atom — both the essential center that everything else surrounds.
Root nucle still carries 5 more wordsWhy It Means This
nucleus made the same metaphorical journey twice. Latin speakers used it for the kernel of a nut. In the 1830s biologists applied it to the dense body at a cell's center; in 1912 Rutherford applied it to the tiny core of an atom. Each time, the logic was identical: name the small, dense, essential center after the kernel you find when you crack open a nut.
Usage Guide
Keep the Latin plural: one nucleus, several nuclei (/ˈnjuːkliaɪ/). 'nucleuses' exists informally but nuclei is standard in scientific writing.
Example Sentences
- 1.
Protons and neutrons are packed tightly inside the atomic nucleus.
- 2.
Under the microscope, each cell's nucleus stained dark blue.
- 3.
These three players form the nucleus of the new team.