alternator
|al/ter/na/tor|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈɔːltərˌneɪtər/
🇬🇧
/ˈɔːltəˌneɪtə/
electricity generator
Etymology
Etymology Information
'alternator' originates from the Latin word 'alternare,' meaning 'to do by turns.'
Historical Evolution
'alternare' transformed into the French word 'alternateur,' and eventually became the modern English word 'alternator.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to do by turns,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a device that generates electricity.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a device in a vehicle that generates electricity to charge the battery and power the electrical system while the engine is running.
The mechanic checked the alternator to ensure it was functioning properly.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45