Electric

Definition

Electric is an adjective that describes something related to, powered by, or producing electricity. It can refer to devices, systems, or effects involving electric energy or be used figuratively to describe something that is intense, exciting, or energetic.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈlɛktrɪk/
• Respelling: ih-LEK-trik

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈlɛktrɪk/
• Respelling: ih-LEK-trik

Etymology

The word "electric" derives from the Latin "electrum," meaning "amber," from the Greek "ēlektron," as ancient Greeks observed that amber could attract lightweight objects when rubbed. It entered the English language in the early 17th century to describe phenomena associated with electric charges.

Derivatives

• Electricity (noun)
• Electrical (adjective)
• Electrify (verb)
• Electrician (noun)
• Electrification (noun)

Synonyms

• Charged
• Powered
• Energetic

Antonyms

• Non-electric
• Manual
• Inactive

Usage

The adjective "electric" commonly describes devices powered by electricity, such as "They bought an electric car." It can also be used to describe an energetic atmosphere, as in "The crowd’s energy was electric during the concert."

Related Terms

• Electricity: A form of energy resulting from charged particles, used for power and light.
• Electromagnetism: The branch of physics dealing with electric and magnetic fields.
• Generator: A device that converts mechanical energy into electricity.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Powered by or producing electricity: Describes devices, machines, or systems that use electric power.
  • Example: "They installed an electric heater to warm the room."
• Related to electricity: Refers to phenomena or principles involving electric energy or current.
  • Example: "The electric charge attracted particles."
• Energetic or exciting: Used figuratively to describe a vibrant or thrilling atmosphere or situation.
  • Example: "The atmosphere at the game was electric."