From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englishnucleusnu‧cle‧us /ˈnjuːkliəs $ ˈnuː-/ noun (plural nuclei /-kliaɪ/) [countable] 1 HPHCthe central part of an atom, made up of neutrons, protons, and other elementary particles2 HBthe central part of almost all the cells of living things3 MAINa small important group at the centre of a larger group or organizationnucleus of the nucleus of an effective team Marantz and Grohl form the nucleus of the Atlanta operation.
Examples from the Corpus
nucleus• For each treatment at least seven pairs of limbs were examined and over 1,500 nuclei counted.• The creature probably created by the fusion of a human nucleus and a bovine ovum was owed something.• Alexander's new gaol remains the nucleus of Maidstone Prison today.• One should not, however, think that the nucleus of any cell will support development if transplanted into the egg.• Doe and Cervenka were the nucleus of the great band "X."• Within the nucleus An atomic nucleus is very small; less than 10 -15 metres in diameter.form the nucleus• These titles have formed the nucleus basis of an educational website.• Meadow Mill now forms the nucleus of a small trading estate.• Hickson hopes this will form the nucleus of a self-help group.• In the beginning of the chapter he calls the 12 disciples who will form the nucleus of the Church.Origin nucleus (1700-1800) Latin “center of a nut”, from nux “nut” 