Amperage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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amperage

[ˈæm.pə.rɪdʒ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

electrical measurement

Amperage refers to the strength of an electric current measured in amperes. It indicates the flow of electric charge through a conductor or circuit. In practical terms, higher amperage means more electrical current is flowing.

Synonyms

amperes, current strength, flow of electricity.

Examples of usage

  • The amperage of the circuit is too high for the fuse.
  • To prevent overheating, we need to monitor the amperage closely.
  • The device requires a minimum amperage to function properly.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Amperage is crucial for safely operating electrical devices, as too much current can damage them.
  • Different devices require different amperages; for example, a cell phone charger uses less than a large refrigerator.
  • Electricians use ammeters to measure amperage, ensuring circuits operate safely.

Pop Culture

  • Amperage often appears in movies involving action or technology, signifying power systems and dramatic electrical scenes.
  • In music, some electronic genres frequently refer to electric current concepts to create a sense of energy and power.

Technology

  • Modern electric vehicles rely on precise amperage measurements to control battery usage and optimize performance.
  • Charging stations for devices often display amperage to indicate how quickly your device will charge.

Safety

  • Understanding amperage is vital for preventing electrical fires; each wire can only handle a certain amount before overheating.
  • Circuit breakers are designed to cut off electricity when the amperage exceeds safe levels, protecting homes and devices.

Origin of 'amperage'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'amperage' comes from 'ampere,' named after French physicist André-Marie Ampère, who studied electricity.
  • In scientific terms, it's usually represented by the symbol 'I,' which stands for intensity of electric current.

The term 'amperage' is derived from the name of the French physicist André-Marie Ampère, who is one of the founders of the science of electromagnetism. The word 'ampère' was introduced into the International System of Units (SI) as the unit of electric current in 1881. 'Amperage' itself emerged in the early 20th century as a means to describe the measurement of electric current, drawing from 'ampère.' The suffix '-age' is often used in English to denote a collective quantification or measurement. Thus, amperage essentially describes the amount of current flowing through a circuit, linking historical scientific advancement with contemporary electrical engineering.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,752 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.