Synonyms for

Nuke

Verb / nu:k / Another word for nuke — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To attack or destroy with nuclear weapons.

Synonyms & similar words

atomicwarhead zap thermonuclearwarhead microcook atomize nuclearwarhead microwave atomise atombomb bomb blast destroy annihilate obliterate eradicate eliminate wreck demolish flatten level incinerate scorch char ignite explode detonate vaporize nuclearize atomize

Synonyms by register

Formal

annihilate obliterate destroy eradicate

Informal

bomb blast zap toast fry

Literary

scorch incinerate pulverize

Antonyms

protect defend shield save preserve fortify reinforce

Common collocations

  • nuke the planet
  • nuke from orbit
  • nuke the site
  • nuke the enemy
  • nuke the city
  • nuke the base

Word family

verb nuke

Usage note

Primarily used informally to mean to destroy with a nuclear weapon or to microwave food. The formal sense of nuclear attack is less common in everyday speech.

Example sentences

  1. The president warned that he would nuke any country that threatened their security.
  2. If we nuke a country, it would cause devastating consequences.
  3. The military strategized how to nuke the enemy base without causing too much collateral damage.
  4. Some people believe that nuking Japan was necessary to end World War II.
  5. If we don't stop the nuclear arms race, someone will eventually nuke us.

Quotes

  • The power to nuke the world is the power to control the world.
  • I know not with what weapons World War III will be fought, but World War IV will be fought with sticks and stones.
  • Nuclear weapons are the scourge of the earth; to mine for them, manufacture them, deploy them, use them, is a curse against God, the human race, and nature.

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