Definition

The small particles that fall to the ground after an explosion, especially those that are radioactive after a nuclear blast.

Example

The scientists monitored the fallout from the nuclear test to assess its environmental impact.

Conversation

Did you hear about the nuclear test last week?

Yeah, I read there’s concern about the fallout it might cause.

Exactly, it's scary to think about the particles that could spread.

For sure, I hope they take all the necessary precautions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fallout is formed from "fall" (from Old English "feallan", meaning to drop or descend) and "out" (meaning away from the inside). The word describes the material that falls out from a source, particularly in the context of radioactive particles that descend after a nuclear explosion.

Memory Tip

Imagine something that 'drops' ('fall') 'away' ('out') from its source — that's why fallout refers to the debris that falls away after an explosion.

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