noun
electromagnet
ih-LEK-troh-mag-nit
Electromagnet (noun) means a magnet that only attracts metal when it is switched on electrically. Example: “The scrapyard crane used an electromagnet to lift piles of scrap metal.”
noun
1
A magnet that only attracts metal when it is switched on electrically.
"The scrapyard crane used an electromagnet to lift piles of scrap metal."
"Switching off the electromagnet released the metal plates it was holding."
"An electromagnet is made by running an electric current through a coil of wire."
How to use electromagnet
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishIt's a magnet that only works when it's plugged in or switched on.
When to use it
It's a plain, everyday science term used in both technical and general writing.
Memory tip
Remember that turning the power off turns the magnetism off too, unlike a permanent magnet.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
a powerful electromagnet
switch on the electromagnet
an electromagnet lifts
a coil-based electromagnet
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The scrapyard crane used an _____ to lift piles of scrap metal.
Etymology
Electromagnet combines electro-, relating to electricity, with the word magnet.
Rhymes for electromagnet
See all rhymes for electromagnet →Frequently asked questions
What is an electromagnet?
It is a magnet that only pulls in metal objects while an electric current is running through it.
How is an electromagnet different from a regular magnet?
A regular magnet stays magnetic all the time, whereas an electromagnet only attracts metal when it is electrically activated.
Where does the word electromagnet come from?
It is formed from electro-, referring to electricity, joined to the existing word magnet.
What is the meaning of electromagnet?
"electromagnet" (noun) means a magnet that only attracts metal when it is switched on electrically.
