diesel-electric

adjective

die·​sel-elec·​tric ˈdē-zəl- i-ˈlek-trik 

-səl-,

-ē-ˈlek-

: of, relating to, or employing a diesel engine for driving an electric generator or for charging batteries

a diesel-electric locomotive

diesel-electric submarines

Examples of diesel-electric in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The vessel’s diesel-electric propulsion and battery banks have become common among the largest superyachts, as owners have come under fire for the amount of carbon emissions these giant yachts emit. —Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 11 Aug. 2025

As the network grows, so does the vision of truly hybrid diesel-electric freight. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 29 July 2025

The train itself is powered by energy-efficient DX-class diesel-electric locomotives, and the carrier maintains strict environmental protocols, including waste minimization and recycling practices on board. —Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 29 June 2025

Velour is powered by a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system comprising four generators (two at 1,000 kW and two at 500 kW). —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 20 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for diesel-electric

• bioelectric
• ferroelectric
• hydroelectric
• isoelectric
• photoelectric
• pyroelectric
• thermoelectric
• dielectric
• electric
• nonelectric
• piezoelectric