Synonyms for

Radioactive

Verb / ˌreɪdi:əʊˈæktɪv / Another word for radioactive — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Radioactive means emitting or relating to the emission of ionizing radiation or particles.

Synonyms & similar words

nonradioactive nuclear atomic radiant glowing irradiating radioactivity contaminated dangerous hazardous toxic polluted poisonous radioisotope irradiated unstable charged energetic excited

Synonyms by register

Formal

radiating emissive luminescent

Informal

glowing hot

Literary

effulgent luminous

Antonyms

inert stable nonradioactive unreactive inactive harmless

Common collocations

  • radioactive material
  • radioactive waste
  • radioactive decay
  • radioactive element
  • radioactive contamination
  • radioactive isotope
  • radioactive source

Word family

noun radioactivity
adverb radioactively

Usage note

Primarily used in scientific and technical contexts. Avoid using informal synonyms like 'hot' in formal writing.

Example sentences

  1. The scientist wore a protective suit while working with radioactive materials.
  2. The Geiger counter detected a high level of radioactivity in the area.
  3. The waste from the nuclear power plant was radioactive.
  4. The radiation therapy was used to treat the cancer.
  5. The radioactive spider bite gave Peter Parker his superpowers.

Quotes

  • Radioactivity is a property of matter, not a property of a particle. Marie Curie
  • The release of atomic energy has not created a new problem. It has merely made more urgent the necessity of solving an existing one. Albert Einstein
  • The atom bomb was no 'great decision.' It was merely another powerful weapon in the arsenal of righteousness. Harry S. Truman

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