Definition of solenoid
: 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)
From the M-W Editors
Recent Examples of solenoid from the Web
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For an ideal solenoid, there is a constant magnetic field.
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Origin and Etymology of solenoid
French solénoïde, from Greek sōlēnoeidēs pipe-shaped, from Greek sōlēn pipe
First Known Use: 1827
Learn More about solenoid
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See words that rhyme with solenoid Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about solenoid
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