What’s the plural of nucleus?
The plural of nucleus (pronounced noo-klee-us) is nuclei or nucleuses. Nuclei is the Latin and original plural form of nucleus.
The biologist counted the nuclei in the samples.
The teacher asked us to bring all our syllabi to class.
The scientist studied several different nucleus.
We found many interesting fungus during our hike.
What’s the singular of nucleus?
Nucleus is singular.
What does nucleus mean?
The Cambridge online dictionary defines nucleus as “the central part of an atom, usually made up of protons and neutrons “.
The plural of “nucleus” is “nuclei,” visualize a scientist counting “nuclei” (not “nucleus”) in cells.
Other Latin nouns
Nucleus belongs to the category of plural nouns of Latin suffixes and origin.They use the distinctly Latinate forms of –us/-I:
| singular | plural |
| nucleus | nuclei or nucleuses |
| octopus | octopi (or octopuses) |
| radius | radi (or radiuses) |
| fungus | fungi (or funguses) |
| alumnus | alumni (or almunuses) |
| syllabus | syllabi (or syllabuses) |
Examples with “nucleus” in sentences
The nucleus has a membrane around it, and is where RNA is made from the DNA in the chromosomes. National Cancer Institute, nucleus.)
2. These three players will form the nucleus of a revised and stronger team.
Translating, when compared to reading, activated mainly the anterior cingulate and bilateral subcortical structures (the putamen and the head of the caudate nucleus).
The impact crater that would have decided between a gravity-dominated versus a strength-dominated comet nucleus was not seen because so much dust was kicked up from the regolith.
The branch has become the forum not of the rank and file but of an active nucleus dominated by a hard core centre.
Examples of “nuclei” in sentences
The analytical modelling permits inclusion of other potential feedback loops through nuclei displaying similar characteristics.
Lysed cells were centrifuged at 2500 g for 15 min and the pellet containing unbroken cells, nuclei, and kinetoplasts was discarded.
The caudate nuclei and pallidum are equally involved in these circuits.
The irregularity of chromosome separation was displayed as chromosome bridges between daughter nuclei in anaphase and telophase.
To account for these restrictions, we propose that laryngeal features are properties not of segments, but of the onsets, nuclei and codas that dominate them.
Origin of the word nucleus
From etymology online on nucleus (n.):
1704, “kernel of a nut;” 1708, “head of a comet;” from Latin nucleus “kernel,” from nucula “little nut”.
What’s the difference between they’re, their, and there?
Work Sheet
According to the post, what are the two acceptable plural forms of “nucleus”?
Which plural form of “nucleus” is described as the Latin and original form?
Based on the “Usage Note” in the post, which sentence demonstrates an incorrect use of the word “nucleus” or a related Latin plural?
The post categorizes “nucleus” with other Latin nouns that often form their plural using -i. Which word from the list below is another example given in the post?
Which option lists only plural forms of Latin -us nouns mentioned in the post?
The central part of an atom, typically containing protons and neutrons, is called the .
According to the “Usage Note” and common mistake examples, you should say “We found many interesting during our hike,” NOT “many interesting fungus.”
The analytical modelling permits inclusion of other potential feedback loops through displaying similar characteristics.
The teacher asked us to bring all our to class.
Lysed cells were centrifuged… and the pellet containing unbroken cells, , and kinetoplasts was discarded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the plural of “nucleus”?
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Which plural form is original?
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What does “nucleus” mean?
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Can I use “nucleus” as plural?
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Are other -us words similar?
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Yash, D. "What’s the Plural of Nucleus?." Grammarflex, Jun 5, 2025, https://www.grammarflex.com/whats-the-plural-of-nucleus/.
Sources
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“Nucleus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nucleus. Accessed 14 Jan. 2023.
