Attenuator: meaning, definitions and examples

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attenuator

 

[ əˈtɛnjuˌeɪtər ]

Context #1

audio equipment

An attenuator is a device that reduces the strength of a signal without appreciably distorting its waveform. It is commonly used in audio equipment to control the volume level or to match signal levels between different components.

Synonyms

signal reducer, volume control

Examples of usage

  • The sound engineer adjusted the attenuator to lower the volume of the microphone.
  • The attenuator helped to balance the audio signals coming from the mixer.
Context #2

physics

In physics, an attenuator is a material or device that reduces the intensity of a beam of particles or waves. It is used in experiments to control the amount of energy reaching a target or detector.

Synonyms

absorber, dampener

Examples of usage

  • The scientist placed the attenuator in the path of the laser beam to reduce its power.
  • The attenuator allowed the researchers to study the effects of lower energy particles.

Translations

Translations of the word "attenuator" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atenuador

🇮🇳 क्षीणक (Kṣīṇaka)

🇩🇪 Abschwächer

🇮🇩 peredam

🇺🇦 атенюатор

🇵🇱 tłumik

🇯🇵 減衰器 (Gensaiki)

🇫🇷 atténuateur

🇪🇸 atenuador

🇹🇷 zayıflatıcı

🇰🇷 감쇠기 (Gamswaegi)

🇸🇦 مخفف (Mukhafif)

🇨🇿 tlumič

🇸🇰 tlmič

🇨🇳 衰减器 (Shuāijiǎnqì)

🇸🇮 dušilec

🇮🇸 veikjari

🇰🇿 әлсіреткіш (älsiretkish)

🇬🇪 შემცირებელი (shemt's'irebeli)

🇦🇿 zəiflədici

🇲🇽 atenuador

Word origin

The word 'attenuator' originated from the Latin word 'attenuare', meaning 'to make thin' or 'weaken'. It first appeared in English in the mid-16th century. The use of attenuators in audio equipment and physics has evolved over time, becoming essential tools in controlling signal strength and energy levels.