radioactive
UK: ˌreɪdiəʊˈæktɪv | US: ˌreɪdioʊˈæktɪv
adj. emitting or relating to the emission of ionizing radiation or particles
adj. (figuratively) highly dynamic or influential in a pervasive way
The word "radioactive" combines "radio," derived from Latin "radius" (ray, beam), referring to radiation, and "active," from Latin "activus" (acting). Coined in the late 19th century by Marie Curie, it describes substances that emit energy due to atomic decay. The term reflects the scientific understanding of radiation as an "active" (energetic) phenomenon.
Uranium is a naturally radioactive element.
The lab detected radioactive contamination in the soil.
Her ideas had a radioactive effect on the political debate.
The waste must be stored safely due to its radioactive properties.
Radium glows faintly because it is highly radioactive.