Pronunciation: [njˈuːk] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "nuke" is based on its pronunciation. The word is a shortened form of the word "nuclear", which is commonly pronounced /ˈnjuːkliər/. This pronunciation led to the spelling of "nuke" with the letter "u" replacing the letter "c" to create a more phonetic spelling. The IPA transcription of "nuke" is /njuːk/. This shorthand word is frequently used in conversations and headlines to talk about nuclear weapons or energy.
Nuke, often used as a noun or a verb, is a colloquial term that typically refers to a nuclear weapon or the process of utilizing nuclear energy. As a noun, "nuke" specifically signifies a devastating explosive device that derives its destructive power from nuclear reactions, primarily involving the splitting (fission) or combining (fusion) of atomic nuclei, resulting in an immense release of energy. Nuclear weapons have been developed with various sizes and capabilities, ranging from tactical or intermediate-range to larger strategic or intercontinental types.
When used as a verb, "nuke" conveys the action of utilizing nuclear energy or deploying a nuclear weapon. In a broader context, it can include any activity related to the application of nuclear energy, such as the generation of electricity through nuclear power plants or the process of nuclear fission for experimental or research purposes.
"nuking" can also be used informally to describe the act of heating or cooking food using a microwave oven. This definition originates from the metaphorical association of the rapid and intense heating process in a microwave with the overwhelming power and speed of a nuclear explosion.
Overall, "nuke" denotes the concept of a nuclear weapon or the deployment and utilization of nuclear energy, depending on its usage as a noun or a verb, respectively.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "nuke" is an abbreviated form of "nuclear". It originated in the 1950s during the Cold War, when nuclear weapons were being developed and tested. The term "nuke" became popularized as a shorter and more colloquial way to refer to nuclear weapons or the use of nuclear energy. It can be used as a noun, verb, or adjective to describe the action or effect of nuclear weaponry or the process of using nuclear power.
