dielectric

noun

di·​elec·​tric ˌdī-ə-ˈlek-trik How to pronounce dielectric (audio)
: a nonconductor of direct electric current
dielectric adjective

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web The materials are fabricated using ordinary metals and electrical insulators, or dielectrics. IEEE Spectrum, 3 Sep. 2022 The amount of power absorbed by the dielectric is often measured by something called the loss tangent. Chris Lee, Ars Technica, 15 Jan. 2018 In the case of a coaxial cable, the dielectric is usually chosen such that a 50Ohm resistor will match the properties of the cable. Chris Lee, Ars Technica, 15 Jan. 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dielectric.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

dia- + electric

First Known Use

1837, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dielectric was in 1837

Dictionary Entries Near dielectric

Cite this Entry

“Dielectric.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dielectric. Accessed 7 Jun. 2023.

Medical Definition

dielectric

noun
di·​elec·​tric ˌdī-i-ˈlek-trik How to pronounce dielectric (audio)
: a nonconductor of direct electric current
dielectric adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on dielectric

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