rectifier

noun

rec·​ti·​fi·​er ˈrek-tə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce rectifier (audio)
: one that rectifies
specifically : a device for converting alternating current into direct current

Examples of rectifier in a Sentence

a tropical vacation is a surefire rectifier of the midwinter blues
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
At the turn of the century, a group of rogue whiskey makers known as rectifiers were putting additives in spirits. Maggie Menderski, The Courier-Journal, 4 June 2024 This combination of antenna and rectifier (or converter) is called a rectenna. Scientific American, 1 Dec. 2021 The antenna routes that energy into an electronic rectifier circuit, which in turn uses semiconductors to convert it into a direct-current (DC) voltage that can charge or power a device. Scientific American, 1 Dec. 2021 This word, a portmanteau of rectifier and antenna, reflects how each element converts the electromagnetic waves into direct-current electricity. IEEE Spectrum, 21 May 2022 The receiver board consists of a Class D rectifier and a DC/DC converter. IEEE Spectrum, 23 Sep. 2016 Their active-variable reactance rectifier puts magnetic plates beneath the vehicle that are connected to a power line. Tim Newcomb, Popular Mechanics, 17 June 2022 Power Transformer: Converts the 120 volts of power from the wall socket to a higher AC voltage and sends it to the rectifier tubes. Kevin Dupzyk, Popular Mechanics, 24 Mar. 2015 But the Hero, unlike past rectifiers, is packed with sensors to remotely measure and wirelessly report that the pipe is still connected, and resisting rust. Joseph N. Distefano, Philly.com, 19 Apr. 2018

Word History

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rectifier was in 1607

Dictionary Entries Near rectifier

Cite this Entry

“Rectifier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rectifier. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on rectifier

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!