transformer

noun

trans·​form·​er tran(t)s-ˈfȯr-mər How to pronounce transformer (audio)
Synonyms of transformernext
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Officials are still investigating why the transformer failed. Kansas City Star, 15 Dec. 2025 Risk to investors The risk is that electric infrastructure such as power plants, transmission lines and transformers will be built for speculative data centers that either do not materialize or use less electricity than anticipated, Rhodes said. Spencer Kimball, CNBC, 12 Dec. 2025 In addition to the 444 Tesla Megapack battery units, the site includes three Toshiba 500 kilovolt (kV) transformers. Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 9 Dec. 2025 As a result, the cost of some electrical equipment like transformers has risen faster than the rate of inflation, Hledik said. Ella Nilsen, CNN Money, 4 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for transformer

Word History

First Known Use

1596, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of transformer was in 1596

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Cite this Entry

“Transformer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transformer. Accessed 19 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

transformer

noun
trans·​form·​er tran(t)s-ˈfȯr-mər How to pronounce transformer (audio)
: a device for changing an electric current into one of different voltage
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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