amplifier

noun

am·​pli·​fi·​er ˈam-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce amplifier (audio)
: one that amplifies
specifically : an electronic device (as in a stereo system) for amplifying voltage, current, or power

Examples of amplifier in a Sentence

He plugged his electric guitar into an amplifier.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And for folks new to the vinyl universe, not having to immediately invest in audio separates like a pre-amp, amplifier, cables, speakers and so on is another huge bonus in my opinion. New Atlas, 6 Mar. 2026 Finally, the whole chain became a closed loop by driving the Marshall amplifier near saturation, which among other things extends the sustain. IEEE Spectrum, 25 Feb. 2026 Psychedelics are non-specific amplifiers of existing personality traits. Erica Rex, STAT, 19 Feb. 2026 Kennedy said Bluetooth Low Energy only has a 10- to 15-foot radius, but with signal amplifiers and high-gain antennas, the radius can extend to several hundred feet. Kierra Frazier, CBS News, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for amplifier

Word History

Etymology

amplify + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amplifier was in 1551

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Amplifier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amplifier. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

amplifier

noun
am·​pli·​fi·​er ˈam-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce amplifier (audio)
: one that amplifies
especially : a device usually using electron tubes or transistors to obtain an increase of voltage, current, or power

Medical Definition

amplifier

noun
am·​pli·​fi·​er ˈam-plə-ˌfī(ə)r How to pronounce amplifier (audio)
: one that amplifies
specifically : an electronic device (as in a computer or sound-reproducing system) for amplifying voltage, current, or power

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