transformer

noun

trans·​form·​er tran(t)s-ˈfȯr-mər 

: one that transforms

specifically : a device employing the principle of mutual induction to convert variations of current in a primary circuit into variations of voltage and current in a secondary circuit

Examples of transformer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

According to information on the city of Hobart’s website, the city’s only full road closure will be at 61st and Wisconsin Street as each transformer arrives. — Jim Masters, Chicago Tribune, 10 Nov. 2026

After falling into the road, the transformer began leaking fuel. — Christa Swanson, CBS News, 8 Nov. 2026

This phenomenon is the same basic principle of electromagnetic induction behind conventional transformers and generators. — New Atlas, 8 Nov. 2026

Each of these leaders has read the Paris protests the way the data-center critics read the AI build-out, as though the protest is really about Gaza the way the backlash is really about transformers and water. — Stephen Messer, Fortune, 5 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1596, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing transformer

• Tesla transformer

Rhymes for transformer

• conformer
• informer
• performer
• reformer
• dormer
• former
• warmer

Kids Definition

transformer

noun

trans·​form·​er tran(t)s-ˈfȯr-mər 

: a device for changing an electric current into one of different voltage