CEFR C1

nucleate

verb

Meaning

To form a nucleus or to cause to form a nucleus, around which a crystal or solid may grow, or from which a cell or organism develops.

Examples

  • The rapid cooling of the solution caused the salt to nucleate and precipitate out.
  • Researchers are studying how to nucleate ice crystals at higher temperatures for artificial snow.

Synonyms: germinate, originate, form, initiate