attenuator

noun

at·​ten·​u·​a·​tor ə-ˈten-yə-ˌwā-tər How to pronounce attenuator (audio)
-yü-ˌā-
: a device for attenuating
especially : one for reducing the amplitude of an electrical signal without appreciable distortion

Examples of attenuator in a Sentence

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.
The real magic is in the attenuator, which filters out the most damaging sounds without muffling them. Louryn Strampe, Wired News, 8 Aug. 2025 Newgarden car and teammate Will Power’s were sent to the back of the Indy 500 lineup for after violating IndyCar rules with alterations to their cars’ attenuators during May 18 qualifications. Shari Rudavsky, IndyStar, 2 July 2025 Crash attenuator vehicles and signing patterns will guide motorists through the work zone. Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 24 June 2025 Also dismissed for illegally modifying the rear attenuator was Team Penske IndyCar President Tim Cindric and the team’s IndyCar Managing Director Ron Ruzewski. Bruce Martin, Forbes.com, 22 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for attenuator

Word History

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of attenuator was in 1899

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Cite this Entry

“Attenuator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/attenuator. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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