potential difference

noun

: the difference in potential between two points that represents the work involved or the energy released in the transfer of a unit quantity of electricity from one point to the other

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of potential difference was in 1892

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Dictionary Entries Near potential difference

potential coil

potential difference

potential divider

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Potential difference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/potential%20difference. Accessed 29 Mar. 2023.

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Kids Definition

potential difference

noun

: the difference in potential between two points that represents the work involved or the energy released in the transfer of a unit quantity of electricity from one point to the other

Medical Definition

potential difference

noun

potential dif·fer·ence -ˈdif-(ə-)rən(t)s

: the difference in electrical potential between two points that represents the work involved or the energy released in the transfer of a unit quantity of electricity from one point to the other compare action potential, generator potential, membrane potential, resting potential