1. to form a nucleus or center around which something develops or grows
Usage: scientific
2. to cause the formation of nuclei in a substance
Usage: chemistry; physics

1. having a nucleus
Usage: biology

Examples

• Ice crystals nucleate around dust particles in the atmosphere.
• The scientist added a chemical to nucleate the crystallization process.
• Bubbles nucleate at rough surfaces in boiling water.
• The researcher studied how proteins nucleate in solution.
• Nucleate cells contain genetic material within a membrane-bound nucleus.
• The nucleate structure was clearly visible under the microscope.