Wimshurst machine

noun

Wims·​hurst machine
ˈwimzˌhərst-
: an electric machine of the induction type having two closely parallel glass plates revolving in opposite directions and bearing a set of metal carriers corresponding pairs of which on the two plates act momentarily as small electrophorus elements and usually being provided with Leyden jars for storing the accumulated charges

Word History

Etymology

after James Wimshurst †1903 English engineer

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Cite this Entry

“Wimshurst machine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Wimshurst%20machine. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

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