Electric: meaning, definitions and examples

Add to dictionary

electric

 

[ ɪˈlɛktrɪk ]

Adjective / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adjective

power supply

relating to or working by electricity

Synonyms

electrical, powered by electricity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
electric

Used to describe something that uses, produces, or is related to electricity. It often refers to devices and machines.

  • She drives an electric car.
  • We need to charge our electric toothbrush.
electrical

Refers to anything related to electricity, usually more abstract, technical, or related to the science and industry of electricity.

  • He is studying electrical engineering.
  • They installed new electrical wiring in the house.
powered by electricity

Describes something that operates by using electricity, typically used to emphasize the power source and often found in marketing or product descriptions.

  • The new lawnmower is powered by electricity.
  • This scooter is powered by electricity instead of gasoline.

Examples of usage

  • an electric heater
  • electric lights
Context #2 | Noun

vehicle

a vehicle powered by an electric motor, such as an electric car

Synonyms

EV, electric vehicle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
electric

Use when referring to anything powered by electricity. It can describe a variety of devices or systems.

  • He uses an electric toothbrush every morning.
  • This new house has electric heating.
EV

Use as an abbreviation for 'electric vehicle.' Commonly used in more casual or industry-specific conversations.

  • I'm considering getting an EV for my daily commute.
  • Tesla is a well-known manufacturer of EVs.
electric vehicle

Use when referring to a type of vehicle that runs on electric power instead of gasoline.

  • He just bought an electric vehicle to reduce his carbon footprint.
  • Charging stations for electric vehicles are increasingly common.

Examples of usage

  • She drives an electric to work every day
  • The company is investing in electric production
Context #3 | Adjective

excitement

having or producing exciting and sensational effects

Synonyms

exciting, thrilling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
electric

Best used to describe something that is literally powered by electricity or to describe an atmosphere that is full of excitement and energy.

  • The concert had an electric atmosphere.
  • They bought a new electric car.
exciting

Ideal for describing something that causes a lot of interest and enthusiasm. It is generally positive.

  • The movie was very exciting.
  • We're planning an exciting trip to Japan.
thrilling

Used to describe something that provokes a strong feeling of excitement, often with an element of suspense or danger. This word is also positive.

  • The roller coaster ride was absolutely thrilling.
  • Solving the mystery was a thrilling experience.

Examples of usage

  • an electric performance
  • an electric atmosphere

Translations

Translations of the word "electric" in other languages:

🇵🇹 elétrico

🇮🇳 विद्युत

🇩🇪 elektrisch

🇮🇩 listrik

🇺🇦 електричний

🇵🇱 elektryczny

🇯🇵 電気的

🇫🇷 électrique

🇪🇸 eléctrico

🇹🇷 elektrik

🇰🇷 전기의

🇸🇦 كهربائي

🇨🇿 elektrický

🇸🇰 elektrický

🇨🇳 电的

🇸🇮 električni

🇮🇸 rafmagns

🇰🇿 электр

🇬🇪 ელექტრული

🇦🇿 elektrik

🇲🇽 eléctrico

Etymology

The word 'electric' comes from the Latin word 'electricus', meaning 'resembling amber'. The term was first used in English in the 17th century to describe the properties of amber that exhibited static electricity when rubbed. Over time, the word evolved to encompass the broader concept of electricity and its applications in various fields.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,423, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.