In this paper, the impact of cerium (Ce) additives on the structural, electrical and radiation attenuation characteristics of cerium zinc (Zn)- manganese (Mn)-based spinel nanoferrite, named ZMCeF-nanoferrite was investigated. Our investigation involved a thorough examination of the morphology and distribution of the ZMCeF-nanoferrite utilizing HR-TEM analysis, which revealed showcasing the distinctive spherical morphology of the nanoparticles along with observations of their aggregation tendencies. These findings are ascribed to the heightened magnetic interactions between the ZMCeF-ferrite nanoparticles. The ZMCeF5 nanoferrite demonstrates an optimal dielectric constant value compared to the free Ce ferrite composition, exhibiting an enhancement ratio of 109 %. Additionally, it showcases optimal conductivity, with an upgrading ratio of 780 %, and minimal loss, with an enhancing ratio of 3.5 %. Moreover, the elastic moduli of the ZMCeF5 sample exhibited a marked increase as the Ce content increased. Upon examining the mass attenuation coefficient (MAC) of ZMCeF-nanoferrite across three energy regions, we note a trend of increased MAC values corresponding to higher Ce additions. In contrast, the half-value layer (HVL) values decrease as Ce additions increase. Comparing the HVL values of the current ZMCeF-nanoferrite with those of selected radiation shielding material, we find that HVL of the ZMCeF-nanoferrite exhibits smaller values. These findings present promising prospects for optimizing spinel nanomaterials for use in radiation shielding applications.