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Dielectric Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dielectric

[ˌdaɪɪˈlɛktrɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

electricity

A dielectric is a material or substance that is a poor conductor of electricity, but an efficient supporter of electrostatic fields.

Synonyms

insulator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dielectric

Used in technical or scientific contexts, particularly in engineering and physics, to describe materials that don't conduct electricity but can support an electrostatic field.

  • Dielectrics are used in capacitors to store electric energy
  • The dielectric constant measures a material's ability to act as a dielectric
insulator

Used in both technical and everyday language to describe materials that do not allow electricity or heat to pass through. It has broader usage compared to 'dielectric'.

  • Rubber is a good insulator used for covering electric wires
  • Insulators help prevent accidental electrical shocks

Examples of usage

  • The dielectric properties of materials are important in various electrical applications.
  • The dielectric constant is a measure of how well a material can store electrical energy.
Context #2 | Noun

capacitors

In the context of capacitors, a dielectric is a non-conducting substance or medium between the plates of a capacitor that increases its capacitance.

Synonyms

insulator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dielectric

Used in scientific or technical settings to describe materials that do not conduct electricity and are used to store electrical energy.

  • The researchers tested the dielectric properties of the new polymer.
  • This capacitor uses a ceramic dielectric.
insulator

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to materials that prevent the flow of electricity or heat. It is also used in engineering contexts.

  • Rubber is a good insulator, which is why it is used for covering electrical wires.
  • Thermal insulators help keep buildings warm in the winter.

Examples of usage

  • The dielectric material in a capacitor helps to store electrical charge.
  • Changing the dielectric can alter the capacitance of the capacitor.
Context #3 | Noun

physics

In physics, a dielectric is a non-conductive material that can sustain an electric field with little to no dissipation of energy.

Synonyms

insulator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dielectric

Typically used in scientific or technical contexts to describe materials that do not conduct electric current and are used to support electric fields.

  • The research on dielectric materials is crucial for advances in capacitor technology
  • The dielectric properties of the material make it an excellent choice for insulation in high-voltage equipment
insulator

Commonly used in everyday language and technical contexts to refer to materials that prevent the flow of electric current, often to describe household items or components in electronics.

  • Rubber is an excellent insulator and is often used to protect electrical wires
  • Ensure that all the insulators are intact before turning on the power

Examples of usage

  • Dielectrics are used in various electronic devices for their insulating properties.
  • The dielectric strength of a material determines its ability to withstand electric fields.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Dielectric materials are crucial in capacitors, which store and release electrical energy in circuits.
  • The dielectric constant measures a material's ability to store electrical energy; higher values indicate better storage capabilities.
  • Common dielectrics include air, water, and various plastics, each with specific properties that affect their use in electronics.

Technology

  • In telecommunications, dielectric materials are used in cables and insulators to ensure signals travel efficiently without loss.
  • Advancements in dielectric materials contribute immensely to the miniaturization of electronic devices, such as smartphones and computers.

Everyday Life

  • The rubber or plastic coating on wires acts as a dielectric, preventing electrical shock while allowing the flow of electricity through the wire itself.
  • Fuzzy dielectric surfaces can create static electricity, which is why you sometimes get a shock when touching metal after walking on carpet.

Physics

  • Dielectrics can be polarized by an electric field, aligning their internal charges and creating an electric field within the material itself.
  • The behavior of dielectric materials under an electric field is essential for understanding capacitance and energy storage in circuits.

Origin of 'dielectric'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek words 'dia' meaning 'through' and 'lektos' meaning 'spoken' or 'gathered', suggesting that it allows electric fields to pass through.
  • The word 'dielectric' was first used in the early 19th century, expanding scientific language as electricity began to be better understood.

The term 'dielectric' comes from the Greek words 'dia' meaning 'through' and 'electric' related to electricity. It was first introduced in the 19th century to describe materials that exhibit insulating properties in the presence of an electric field. Dielectrics play a crucial role in various fields such as electronics, telecommunications, and power systems, where their ability to store and transmit electrical energy efficiently is utilized.

See also: electrical, electricity.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,206 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.