direct current

noun

: an electric current flowing in one direction only and substantially constant in value
abbreviation DC

Examples of direct current 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.
These transparent solar panels generate direct current electricity that supplies 25 percent of the building’s daily energy needs while minimizing energy loss. Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 25 Aug. 2025 Edison’s genius was less in his lab notebooks — his beloved direct current turned out to be a loser in our alternating-current world — than in his grasp of network effects and utility. Liz Hoffman, semafor.com, 21 Aug. 2025 Photovoltaic panels are made from silicon cells that generate direct current electricity when sunlight excites electrons. Dianne Plummer, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2025 The chair used 1,300 volts of alternating current, developed by Nikola Tesla; Thomas Edison promoted the execution to associate AC with death and thus boost his own direct current system. Lorenzino Estrada, AZCentral.com, 7 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for direct current

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of direct current was in 1849

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Cite this Entry

“Direct current.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/direct%20current. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

direct current

noun
: an electric current flowing in one direction only
abbreviation DC

Medical Definition

direct current

noun
: an electric current flowing in one direction only and substantially constant in value
abbreviation DC

More from Merriam-Webster on direct current

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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