transistor
tran-ZIHS-t
Transistor (noun) means a small semiconductor device used to amplify or switch electronic signals. Example: “Modern computer chips contain billions of tiny transistors.”
noun
1
A small semiconductor device used to amplify or switch electronic signals.
"Modern computer chips contain billions of tiny transistors."
2
Informal short form of "transistor radio."
"He listened to the match on an old transistor."
"Turn your transistor on and let the music play"
— Billy Joel, Half a Mile Away (1978)
How to use transistor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA tiny electronic switch that powers almost all modern electronics, or, informally, a portable radio.
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Word forms
- Plural
- transistors
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Modern computer chips contain billions of tiny _____.
Etymology
A blend of "transfer" and "resistor," coined by American engineer John Robinson Pierce in 1947.
Synonyms
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junction transistor
electronic transistor
Frequently asked questions
What does “transistor” mean?
The word “transistor” means a small semiconductor device used to amplify or switch electronic signals. In plain terms, a tiny electronic switch that powers almost all modern electronics, or, informally, a portable radio.
How do you pronounce “transistor”?
“Transistor” is pronounced tran-ZIHS-t (/tɹænˈzɪs.tɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “transistor” in a sentence?
Here is “transistor” used in a sentence: “Modern computer chips contain billions of tiny transistors.”
What part of speech is “transistor”?
“Transistor” is a noun.
Where does the word “transistor” come from?
The word “transistor” dates back to around 1947. A blend of "transfer" and "resistor," coined by American engineer John Robinson Pierce in 1947.
Is “transistor” a common word?
“Transistor” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “transistor” have?
“Transistor” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a small semiconductor device used to amplify or switch electronic signals.
