atomic pile

noun

, Physics.

1. reactor ( def 4 ).

atomic pile

noun

1. See nuclear reactor
   the original name for a nuclear reactor

atomic pile

1. An early type of nuclear reactor whose core consisted of layers of graphite block interspersed with uranium, designed to create a sustained fission reaction.

Word History and Origins

Origin of atomic pile¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Inside this anchor tube ran the thick coaxial cable that fed three-phase electric power from the atomic pile to the ship.

From Project Gutenberg

Trailing the wheel ten miles off, was the atomic pile, directly attached to its anchor tube.

From Project Gutenberg

Look, you know how an atomic pile works—essentially just like an atomic bomb.

From Project Gutenberg

The atomic pile levers were still at their proper calibration.

From Project Gutenberg

This ship is powered by a nuclear reactor—in other words, an atomic pile.

From Project Gutenberg