alternator

noun

al·​ter·​na·​tor ˈȯl-tər-ˌnā-tər 

also ˈal-

: an electric generator for producing alternating current

Examples of alternator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These include motorsport-grade wiring looms, reinforced GNSS and 5G antennas, new alternators, and vibration-damping systems to protect sensitive electronics. —Kapil Kajal, Interesting Engineering, 21 Nov. 2025

Once the nonoperational car battery has successfully been revived, remove the cables in the reverse order of original placement and drive the vehicle so the alternator can help return the battery to optimal power. —Charles Singh, Nashville Tennessean, 28 Oct. 2025

Auto Zone advises to check battery terminals, alternator belt and battery condition. —Dejanay Booth, USA Today, 5 Oct. 2025

Flexible recharge options—from campsite hookups and solar panels to generators and vehicle alternators—ensure efficient top-ups between stops. —New Atlas, 29 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

alternate entry 2 + -or entry 1

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for alternator

• activator
• actuator
• agitator
• alligator
• allocator
• animator
• annotator
• applicator
• arbitrator
• aspirator
• aviator
• calculator

Kids Definition

alternator

noun

al·​ter·​na·​tor ˈȯl-tər-ˌnāt-ər 

also ˈal-

: an electric generator for producing alternating current