rectifier
|rec-ti-fi-er|
🇺🇸
/ˈrɛktɪfaɪər/
🇬🇧
/ˈrɛktɪfaɪə/
make straight / make right
Etymology
'rectifier' originates from Latin, specifically from the Late Latin verb 'rectificare', where 'rectus' meant 'straight' or 'right' and 'facere' meant 'to make'.
'rectifier' developed via Old French/Medieval Latin forms (Old French 'rectifier' / Medieval Latin 'rectificare') and entered English in forms influenced by these, eventually becoming the modern English 'rectifier'.
Initially related to 'making straight' or 'making right', the term came to denote both an agent that corrects and specific technical apparatuses (e.g., electrical devices that convert AC to DC); the core idea of 'making right' persists in these senses.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an electrical device that converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC), typically using diodes, thyristors, or similar components.
The old radio's rectifier failed, so it could no longer produce the DC voltage the circuit needed.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a person or thing that rectifies; one that corrects, reforms, or sets things right.
As a mediator he acted as a rectifier, helping to resolve conflicts within the organization.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 3
an apparatus used in rectification/distillation (a rectifying column) to purify or separate liquids by repeated vaporization and condensation.
The rectifier in the distillery increased the alcohol's purity after several passes.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/08 01:22