Nuke

Nuke is a term that can refer to several different concepts in science, technology, and everyday language.

In one sense, a nuke is a nuclear weapon, a device that releases energy through nuclear reactions. These devices derive their energy from fission, fusion, or a combination of both. Nuclear weapons have been used in warfare and remain a central topic in international security, arms control, and nonproliferation efforts. Discussions typically focus on deterrence, disarmament, verification, and the risks posed by accidents or unauthorized use. Detailed design information is restricted for safety and strategic reasons.

In another sense, Nuke is a node-based compositing software used in the visual effects industry to create and integrate images for film, television, and other media. It is developed by The Foundry and is widely used for tasks such as compositing, color correction, and rotoscoping. The software supports a node graph workflow, 2D and 3D compositing, and scripting, often via Python. The product line includes Nuke, NukeX, and Nuke Studio, which combine different levels of compositing, tracking, and editorial features for production pipelines.

In everyday language, “nuke” is also a common verb meaning to microwave food, and, more informally, to destroy or eliminate something.

Overall, the term Nuke covers both technical software used in special effects and a class of powerful weapons, as well as vernacular usage in ordinary speech.