watt

noun

: the absolute meter-kilogram-second unit of power equal to the work done at the rate of one joule per second or to the power produced by a current of one ampere across a potential difference of one volt : 1/746 horsepower

Examples of watt 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 human brain uses just 20 watts—less than a dim lightbulb. Deni Ellis Béchard, Scientific American, 28 Mar. 2026 In Connecticut, an October law requires all e-bike riders to wear a helmet, and bikes without pedals equipped with batteries over 750 watts will require a driver's license. ABC News, 28 Mar. 2026 Plug-in, or 'balcony,' solar involves small, portable units, typically less than 390 watts, that can be connected directly to a standard wall outlet. Christiana Freitag, Chicago Tribune, 27 Mar. 2026 The legislation would allow customers to utilize plug-in solar panels with an output of up to 1,200 watts without the approval of their local electric utility — so long as the devices meet certain safety and consumer protection requirements. John Moritz, Hartford Courant, 25 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for watt

Word History

Etymology

James Watt †1819

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of watt was in 1882

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Cite this Entry

“Watt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/watt. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

watt

noun
: a unit of power equal to the work done at the rate of one joule per second
Etymology

named for James Watt 1736–1819 Scottish engineer

Medical Definition

watt

noun
: the absolute mks unit of power equal to the work done at the rate of one joule per second or to the power produced by a current of one ampere across a potential difference of one volt : ¹/₇₄₆ horsepower

Biographical Definition

Watt

biographical name

James 1736–1819 Scottish inventor

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