Electricity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⚡
electricity
[ɪˌlɛkˈtrɪsɪti ]
Definition
power generation
Electricity is the set of physical phenomena associated with the presence and motion of electric charge. It is a form of energy that is easily converted into various other forms, such as light, heat, and sound. Electricity plays a crucial role in modern society, powering homes, businesses, and industries.
Synonyms
electric power, electrical energy, power.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| electricity |
General term referring to the flow of electric charge, typically in the context of household usage or utilities.
|
| power |
A broad term that can refer to electricity in general but also to different forms of energy and influence, often used in everyday conversation or in contexts not strictly related to electricity.
|
| electric power |
Refers specifically to the rate at which electric energy is transferred by an electric circuit, often used in the context of engineering or electrical systems.
|
| electrical energy |
Describes the energy derived from electric potential and kinetic energy, used in scientific, technical, or educational settings.
|
Examples of usage
- Electricity is generated by power plants and distributed through power lines.
- Many appliances in our homes, such as lights and refrigerators, run on electricity.
- Without electricity, our daily lives would be drastically different.
- The invention of the light bulb revolutionized the way we use electricity.
- Electricity is a fundamental part of our everyday lives.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from 'electrum', a mineral that produces static electricity when rubbed.
- Benjamin Franklin's famous kite experiment in 1752 helped prove that lightning is a form of electricity.
- The first practical use of electricity in homes began in the 1880s with Thomas Edison inventing the light bulb.
Science
- Electricity can flow through wires and is measured in units called volts.
- There are two types: direct current (DC), which flows in one direction, and alternating current (AC), which changes direction.
- Static electricity happens when there is an imbalance of electric charges, often experienced when you touch something after walking on carpet.
Pop Culture
- Electricity is often featured in movies and books, like in the 1931 classic 'Frankenstein', where the creature is brought to life using lightning.
- The song 'Electricity' from the musical 'Billy Elliot' celebrates the joy and power of creativity and dreams.
- In the popular animated series 'The Incredibles', one character has the ability to control electricity, showcasing its power in a fun way.
Technology
- Electricity is essential for modern technology, powering everything from smartphones to medical equipment.
- The development of batteries enabled portable energy storage, making devices like flashlights and laptops possible.
- Renewable energy sources, like solar and wind, are increasingly used to generate electricity, helping the environment.
Psychology
- The human brain uses electrical signals to communicate between neurons, showcasing how electricity is vital for our thoughts and movements.
- Research indicates that exposure to certain types of light can influence mood, emphasizing the link between electricity and emotion.
- Some therapies use electrical stimulation to alleviate pain, showing practical applications of electricity in health care.
Origin of 'electricity'
The history of electricity dates back thousands of years, with early civilizations recognizing the phenomenon of static electricity. The modern understanding and harnessing of electricity began in the 18th century, with key figures such as Benjamin Franklin and Alessandro Volta making significant contributions. The development of electric power systems in the late 19th and early 20th centuries revolutionized industry, transportation, and communication. Today, electricity is a vital part of daily life, powering everything from lights and appliances to computers and smartphones.
See also: dielectric, electrical.