1. The use of nuclear weapons, as by the military, often considered a last resort. I'm worried about the repercussions if our military officials choose the nuclear option.

2. In the US Senate, a course of action allowing the majority party to end filibustering with a simple majority, rather than the usually required supermajority of 60%. Senators could, however, use the nuclear option to approve that nomination.

3. An especially drastic decision or action. Calling the CEO about this issue is definitely the nuclear option—let's see what we can do on our own first.