solenoid

noun

so·​le·​noid ˈsō-lə-ˌnȯid 

ˈsä-

: a coil of wire usually in cylindrical form that when carrying a current acts like a magnet so that a movable core is drawn into the coil when a current flows and that is used especially as a switch or control for a mechanical device (such as a valve)

solenoidal

ˌsō-lə-ˈnȯi-dᵊl 

ˌsä-

adjective

Examples of solenoid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The central solenoid, tested alongside the toroidal magnet, is responsible for initiating and controlling the plasma current inside the reactor. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 29 June 2026

The design required the production team to bring a broad range of understandings, everything from electromagnetism, solenoid latches, lever arm weight multiplication, spring hinges, DMX triggers, foam fabrication, and sculpture. — Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 19 May 2026

Surveillance footage from the scenes shows the suspects using magnets to manipulate the fuel pump solenoids by opening pump panels and allowing fuel to be dispensed without payment, investigators said. — Michelle Del Rey, USA Today, 20 Mar. 2026

Preliminary studies suggest a muon collider is possible, but key technologies, like powerful high-field solenoid magnets used for cooling, still need to be developed. — IEEE Spectrum, 2 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French solénoïde, from Greek sōlēnoeidēs pipe-shaped, from Greek sōlēn pipe

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for solenoid

• adenoid
• alkaloid
• amoeboid
• amyloid
• aneroid
• arachnoid
• asteroid
• benzenoid
• carcinoid
• celluloid
• coronoid
• humanoid

Kids Definition

solenoid

noun

so·​le·​noid ˈsō-lə-ˌnȯid 

ˈsäl-ə-

: a coil of wire commonly in the form of a long cylinder that when carrying a current acts as a magnet so that a movable core is drawn into the coil when a current flows