noun
capacitor
kuh-PA-sih-tuh
Capacitor (noun) means an electronic component that stores electrical energy, typically made from two conductive plates separated by an insulating layer. Example: “The circuit uses a capacitor to smooth out voltage spikes.”
noun
1
An electronic component that stores electrical energy, typically made from two conductive plates separated by an insulating layer.
"The circuit uses a capacitor to smooth out voltage spikes."
How to use capacitor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn electrical part that stores and releases electrical charge.
Easily confused with
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like capacitor.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- capacitors
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The circuit uses a _____ to smooth out voltage spikes.
Etymology
Formed from "capacity" plus "-or." It replaced the older word "condenser" in the 1920s to avoid confusion with steam condensers.
Class of 1920
capacitor joined the language around 1920.
See the full Class of 1920 →
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for capacitor
editor
suitor
monitor
traitor
visitor
janitor
auditor
creditor
solicitor
inhibitor
competitor
inquisitor
See all rhymes for capacitor →
Frequently asked questions
What does “capacitor” mean?
The word “capacitor” means an electronic component that stores electrical energy, typically made from two conductive plates separated by an insulating layer. In plain terms, an electrical part that stores and releases electrical charge.
How do you pronounce “capacitor”?
“Capacitor” is pronounced kuh-PA-sih-tuh (/kəˈpæ.sə.tɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “capacitor” in a sentence?
Here is “capacitor” used in a sentence: “The circuit uses a capacitor to smooth out voltage spikes.”
What part of speech is “capacitor”?
“Capacitor” is a noun.
Where does the word “capacitor” come from?
The word “capacitor” dates back to around 1920. Formed from "capacity" plus "-or." It replaced the older word "condenser" in the 1920s to avoid confusion with steam condensers.
