magnetron

noun

mag·​ne·​tron ˈmag-nə-ˌträn 

: a vacuum tube in which the flow of electrons is controlled by an applied magnetic field to generate power at microwave frequencies

Examples of magnetron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Klystrons and their cousins, cavity magnetrons (found in ordinary microwave ovens), are quite efficient because of their simplicity. —IEEE Spectrum, 24 June 2024

Allison Marsh The technology at the heart of the microwave oven is the cavity magnetron, developed during World War II for radar detection. —IEEE Spectrum, 30 Dec. 2022

The magnetron produces microwaves, which are reflected within the metal interior of the oven. —IEEE Spectrum, 30 Dec. 2022

Amazing Gadgets Today 40 of the Latest and Greatest Gadget Gifts Spencer earned several patents while working on more efficient and effective ways to mass-produce radar magnetrons. —Matt Blitz, Popular Mechanics, 24 Mar. 2023

Word History

Etymology

blend of magnet and -tron

First Known Use

1921, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for magnetron

• aileron
• antiphon
• autobahn
• carillon
• castellan
• celadon
• cephalon
• chitosan
• cynodon
• denouement
• deuteron
• echelon

Medical Definition

magnetron

noun

mag·​ne·​tron ˈmag-nə-ˌträn 

: a diode vacuum tube in which the flow of electrons is controlled by an externally applied magnetic field to generate power at microwave frequencies