English Explanatory Dictionary

nuclear option

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. In resolving a problem, the possible course of action that is considered the most extreme because of its collateral consequences.
  2. A procedure by which the United States Senate can decide any issue with a simple majority, rather than the usual supermajority.

Word forms

nuclear option nuclear options

Etymology

From analogy with the political decision to be the first to use nuclear weapons in a war.

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