alternators
|al-ter-na-tors|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈɔːltərˌneɪtərz/
🇬🇧
/ˈɔːltəˌneɪtəz/
(alternator)
electricity generator
Etymology
Etymology Information
'alternator' originates from the Latin word 'alternare,' where 'alternus' meant 'one after the other.'
Historical Evolution
'alternare' transformed into the French word 'alterner,' and eventually became the modern English word 'alternate,' from which 'alternator' is derived.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to do by turns,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of a device that generates alternating current.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, typically in the form of alternating current.
The car's alternator is responsible for charging the battery.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/07/04 22:06