voltage

noun

volt·​age ˈvōl-tij 

1

: electric potential or potential difference expressed in volts

2

: intensity of feeling

Examples of voltage in a Sentence

We measured the change in voltage across the circuit.

Recent Examples on the Web

The voltage drops to nothing, and the cell’s machinery shuts down. —Quanta Magazine, 20 Apr. 2026

But the voltage in Thailand is higher, so some devices, such as hair tools, require a voltage converter. —Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 16 Apr. 2026

In industry parlance, proponents of public power call for an electric distribution utility, which would own the local distribution grid and minimize the high costs — those delivery charges — of using higher voltage transmission lines. —Craig D. Rose, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Apr. 2026

The only time contemporary dance music rears its head is when Cunningham drops a kick drum to frame the duo’s meanderings, in the same manner that Ciani uses control voltages to corral her buzzing sounds. —Andrew Ryce, Pitchfork, 9 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing voltage

• high-voltage
• voltage divider

Rhymes for voltage

• overvoltage

Kids Definition

voltage

noun

volt·​age ˈvōl-tij 

: potential difference measured in volts

Medical Definition

voltage

noun

volt·​age ˈvōl-tij 

: electrical potential or potential difference expressed in volts