atomic war; nuclear war
Refers to warfare using atomic or nuclear weapons. Often used in historical or speculative contexts.
The threat of atomic war grew during the Cold War era.
International efforts to prevent nuclear war continue.
原子爆弾 refers specifically to the atomic bomb itself, not the war.
Compound of 原子 (atomic) and 戦 (war). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the term emerged in the mid-20th century alongside nuclear weapons development.