transistor

noun

tran·​sis·​tor tran-ˈzi-stər 

tran(t)-ˈsi-

1

: a solid-state electronic device that is used to control the flow of electricity in electronic equipment and usually consists of a small block of a semiconductor (such as germanium) with at least three electrodes

2

: a transistorized radio

Examples of transistor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Among their uses, Linde’s gases create the fizz in sparkling waters, provide respiratory support to hospital patients, and help lasers etch billions of tiny transistors onto artificial intelligence chips. —Morgan Chittum, CNBC, 9 May 2026

Plus, these particles are essential components of modern electronics, powering transistors and high-definition displays in smartphones and computers. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 7 May 2026

Unlike conventional transistors, memristors can retain memory states even when power is removed. —New Atlas, 30 Apr. 2026

In 1958, transistors replaced vacuum tubes. —Paul Edward Parker, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

trans- + (re)sist(ance) entry 1 + -or entry 1

First Known Use

1948, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing transistor

• field-effect transistor
• transistor radio

Rhymes for transistor

• resister
• resistor
• stepsister
• blister
• lyster
• mister
• sister
• twister

Kids Definition

transistor

noun

tran·​sis·​tor tranz-ˈis-tər 

tran(t)s-

1

: an electronic device that consists of a small block of a semiconductor (as germanium) with at least three electrodes and is used to control the flow of electricity in electronic equipment (as a radio or computer)

2

: a radio having transistors

called also transistor radio

Medical Definition

transistor

noun

tran·​sis·​tor tranz-ˈis-tər, tran(t)s- 

: a solid-state electronic device that is used to control the flow of electricity in electronic equipment and consists of a small block of a semiconductor (as germanium) with at least three electrodes