Meaning & Definition
adjective
Emitting or relating to the emission of ionizing radiation or particles.
Uranium is a radioactive element used in nuclear fuel.
Capable of undergoing radioactive decay, leading to the emission of radiation.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas found in basements.
Describes materials or substances that emit radiation as a result of nuclear reactions.
The radioactive waste must be stored securely to prevent contamination.
Etymology
From the combination of 'radio-' meaning ray, and 'active' meaning capable of action.
Common Phrases and Expressions
radioactive waste:
Waste that contains radioactive material and poses a potential threat to the environment.
radioactive decay:
The process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by radiation.
radioactive isotope:
An isotope that is unstable and emits radiation.
Slang Meanings
Glow-in-the-dark
That watch is so radioactive, it practically glows in the dark!
Intensely exciting or dangerous
That party was radioactive; it was wild!