"Fizzle" in the context of nuclear explosions refers to an incomplete or unsuccessful detonation of a nuclear device, which results in significantly less energy release than expected. This can occur due to a variety of factors, such as design flaws, inadequate assembly of fissile materials, or problems with the nuclear trigger mechanism. When a nuclear weapon "fizzles," it may produce a yield that is only a fraction of what was intended, often leading to a relatively small explosion or release of energy.
