static electricity

noun

: electricity that consists of isolated motionless charges (such as those produced by friction)

Example Sentences

In dry weather, static electricity can cause clothes to cling.
Recent Examples on the Web Static dissipative properties, to reduce the accumulation of excess static electricity. Chris Meehan, Popular Mechanics, 15 Dec. 2022 One of those scientists was Pieter van Musschenbroek who, while working in Leiden, the Netherlands, created a jar that could effectively bottle static electricity. Darren Orf, Popular Mechanics, 7 Feb. 2023 In order to tame the static electricity, moisture is needed to weigh down the hair and diminish the charge, which is why Ellis suggests grabbing a leave-in cream, hairspray, or dry shampoo. Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 1 Feb. 2023 All electronics, cameras included, are banned from this area because of fears that stray static electricity could cause airborne explosive particles to detonate. Rebecca Lieberman, New York Times, 2 Feb. 2023 Lightning occurs when static electricity builds up in storm clouds and begins to break down the surrounding air molecules. Byadrian Cho, science.org, 16 Jan. 2023 It is said that static electricity follows the path of least resistance. Andy Saunders, Discover Magazine, 21 July 2021 To further maximize its quality and longevity, the brand recommends washing to minimize static electricity. Marielle Marlys, Good Housekeeping, 24 Jan. 2023 Capacitors are fundamental electronic components that store energy in the form of static electricity. Eric Schlaepfer, IEEE Spectrum, 14 Jan. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'static electricity.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of static electricity was in 1838

Dictionary Entries Near static electricity

Cite this Entry

“Static electricity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/static%20electricity. Accessed 7 Jun. 2023.

Kids Definition

static electricity

noun
: electricity that consists of isolated stationary charges

More from Merriam-Webster on static electricity

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