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noun

electromagnetism

ih-lehk-troh-MAG-nuh-tihzm

Electromagnetism (noun) means the fundamental force that combines electricity and magnetism into a single phenomenon. Example: “Electromagnetism explains why a moving electric current creates a magnetic field.”

noun
1
The fundamental force that combines electricity and magnetism into a single phenomenon.
"Electromagnetism explains why a moving electric current creates a magnetic field."
"Motors and generators both rely on electromagnetism to work."
2
The branch of physics that studies electricity and magnetism together.
"She took a course in electromagnetism during her second year of engineering school."

How to use electromagnetism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe science and force that link electricity and magnetism — one causes the other.

Common pairings
laws of electromagnetism classical electromagnetism

Word forms

electromagnetisms plural

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_____ explains why a moving electric current creates a magnetic field.

Etymology

From electro- ("electricity") plus magnetism, reflecting the 19th-century discovery that the two forces are really one.

· First attested 1800

Class of 1800 electromagnetism joined the language around 1800.
See the full Class of 1800 →
electromagnetics

Rhymes for electromagnetism

See all rhymes for electromagnetism →

Frequently asked questions

What does “electromagnetism” mean?

The word “electromagnetism” means the fundamental force that combines electricity and magnetism into a single phenomenon. In plain terms, the science and force that link electricity and magnetism — one causes the other.

How do you pronounce “electromagnetism”?

“Electromagnetism” is pronounced ih-lehk-troh-MAG-nuh-tihzm (/ɪˌlɛk.tɹoʊˈmæɡ.nəˌtɪzm̩/ in IPA).

How do you use “electromagnetism” in a sentence?

Here is “electromagnetism” used in a sentence: “Electromagnetism explains why a moving electric current creates a magnetic field.”

What part of speech is “electromagnetism”?

“Electromagnetism” is a noun.

Where does the word “electromagnetism” come from?

The word “electromagnetism” dates back to around 1800. From electro- ("electricity") plus magnetism, reflecting the 19th-century discovery that the two forces are really one.

How many meanings does “electromagnetism” have?

“Electromagnetism” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the fundamental force that combines electricity and magnetism into a single phenomenon.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial