Voltage Meaning and Definition
Voltage
Pronunciation
/ˈvɒltɪdʒ/
Part of Speech
Noun, Physics
Definition
A unit of electrical potential, measured in volts, which is the potential difference between two points in an electric circuit.
Examples
- The voltage in the power outlet was too high for the device.
- The battery’s voltage was slowly draining.
- The electrical circuit required a high voltage to operate the device.
- The voltage regulator ensured a stable voltage supply to the equipment.
- The voltage was adjusted to match the specifications of the device.
Synonyms
- Electromotive Force (EMF)
- Potential Difference
Antonyms
- Ground
- Zero Potential
Additional Information
Voltage is a measure of the potential difference between two points in an electric circuit. It is a crucial concept in physics and electrical engineering, as it determines the flow of electric current. High voltage systems are used in applications such as power transmission and distribution, while low voltage systems are used in devices such as computers and smartphones.
Etymology
The term “voltage” was coined by German physicist Edward Weston in the late 19th century. It was derived from the Latin word “volta,” meaning “valley,” in reference to the concept of a “valley” of electric potential.
Usage Notes
Voltage is typically measured in volts (V), and it can be either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). In everyday language, voltage is often used interchangeably with “electricity,” but technically, voltage is a more specific concept.
Cultural References
Voltage has appeared in popular culture, such as in the iconic sci-fi film “Star Wars,” where the technology of hyperspace travel relies on high-voltage energy transmission.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“High-voltage” often refers to something intense, powerful, or dramatic, while “low-voltage” may imply something subdued or uneventful.
Related Words or Phrases
Current, Resistance, Capacitance, Inductance, Electromagnetic Force (EMF)
Collocations
Voltage drop, Voltage regulator, High-voltage transmission, Low-voltage system
Frequency of Use
Voltage is a commonly used term in technical and scientific contexts, particularly in fields such as electrical engineering, physics, and electronics.
Common Misspellings
Voltaj, Voltege, Voltaig, Volitas