thermoelectric

adjective

ther·​mo·​elec·​tric ˌthər-mō-i-ˈlek-trik How to pronounce thermoelectric (audio)
: of, relating to, or dependent on phenomena that involve relations between the temperature and the electrical condition in a metal or in contacting metals

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web The computers responsible for automatically signaling generators to ramp up or down to regulate frequency were programmed to control large thermoelectric and hydroelectric plants, which respond gradually to signals. IEEE Spectrum, 11 Mar. 2023 Researchers have now made a thermoelectric generator (TEG) that is soft and stretchy and that biodegrades completely when exposed to the environment. IEEE Spectrum, 18 Feb. 2023 The thermoelectric Koolatron is an intriguing alternative to all the typical one-trick-pony coolers on the market. Saryn Chorney, Travel + Leisure, 9 Feb. 2023 The town is nestled between the coal-burning power plant, two of the island’s largest thermoelectric plants and other industries, including a company that produces thermoset composites, a material used in major appliances like refrigerators. DÁnica Coto, ajc, 29 Jan. 2023 There are both condenser and thermoelectric wine fridges available today — the former are typically larger and more powerful, while the latter are more compact and energy-efficient. Camryn Rabideau, Peoplemag, 5 Dec. 2022 To be thermoelectric, a substance must let electrons flow through it while blocking the movement of heat. Sophie Bushwick, Discover Magazine, 20 Sep. 2012 Its success at doing so reflects its efficiency as a thermoelectric material, and is represented by a value called ZT. Sophie Bushwick, Discover Magazine, 20 Sep. 2012 But the thermoelectric materials that convert thermal to electrical energy aren't very good at their job. Sophie Bushwick, Discover Magazine, 20 Sep. 2012 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'thermoelectric.' 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

1823, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thermoelectric was in 1823

Dictionary Entries Near thermoelectric

Cite this Entry

“Thermoelectric.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thermoelectric. Accessed 1 Apr. 2023.

Medical Definition

thermoelectric

adjective
ther·​mo·​elec·​tric ˌthər-mō-i-ˈlek-trik How to pronounce thermoelectric (audio)
: of, relating to, or dependent on phenomena that involve relations between the temperature and the electrical condition in a metal or in contacting metals
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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