transformer

noun

trans·​form·​er tran(t)s-ˈfȯr-mər 

: one that transforms

specifically : a device employing the principle of mutual induction to convert variations of current in a primary circuit into variations of voltage and current in a secondary circuit

Examples of transformer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In Hackensack, New Jersey, a blown transformer during Tuesday's storm sparked a fire that destroyed multiple vehicles and left more than 1,000 customers without power. — Kenton Gewecke, ABC News, 29 July 2026

Dual chemistry matters Power grids worldwide (US, Europe, Asia) are delaying data center connections due to transformer shortages and capacity limits. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 27 July 2026

First, a low-voltage DC generator runs a high-voltage AC inverter, which then channels current through a transformer and finally a voltage multiplier. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 23 July 2026

Products in this segment include power transformers and switchgears. — Zev Fima, CNBC, 22 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1596, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing transformer

• Tesla transformer

Rhymes for transformer

• conformer
• informer
• performer
• reformer
• dormer
• former
• warmer

Kids Definition

transformer

noun

trans·​form·​er tran(t)s-ˈfȯr-mər 

: a device for changing an electric current into one of different voltage