adjective / noun
electric
ih-LEK-trik/ɪˈlektrɪk/
Relating to or powered by electricity.
The electric fan runs from the wall outlet, blowing a ribbon outward.
Etymology
Amber gives the word its original image: when rubbed, it attracts other substances. Electric first described materials with this amber-like property, then came to describe the force involved and things powered by it.
In context
This is done in large electric arc furnaces that operate at massive temperatures and consume enormous amounts of electricity.
More examples
- Running the air conditioner raises our electric bill.
- An electric field surrounds every charged particle.
- She replaces her gas-powered car with a used electric.
Forms
electric · electrics
electricity noun — Energy associated with stationary or moving electric charges.
electrically adverb — By means of or involving electricity.
Similar words
- electrical
- Often describes systems and components rather than powered appliances.
- electrified
- Emphasizes that something has been supplied with electric power.