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Kilowatt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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kilowatt

[ˈkɪloʊˌwɑt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

measurement of power

A kilowatt is a unit of power equal to 1,000 watts. It is commonly used to measure the output of engines and the power consumption of electrical devices. The term is often found in energy consumption reports and electrical specifications.

Synonyms

kW, thousand watts.

Examples of usage

  • The air conditioner consumes 2 kilowatts of power.
  • The generator produces 5 kilowatts of electricity.
  • They installed a solar panel system with a 10-kilowatt capacity.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Energy Science

  • One kilowatt equals 1,000 watts, making it a convenient way to express electrical power for large appliances.
  • A typical kettle might use about 2-3 kilowatts of power, which helps translate energy use into relatable terms.

Historical Context

  • The use of the watt as a unit of power became standardized in the late 19th century during the rise of electrical engineering.
  • Kilowatts became an important measure with the expansion of electrical networks in cities, facilitating trade and residential use.

Pop Culture

  • In many recent films and shows, futuristic vehicles are often shown running on clean energy measured in kilowatts, representing a move towards renewable sources.
  • Video game power meters often display energy consumption in kilowatts to emphasize the importance of managing energy use.

Technology

  • Modern solar panels are rated based on the kilowatt-hours they can produce, showcasing their efficiency in converting sunlight into power.
  • Smart home devices often track usage in kilowatts to help homeowners manage energy consumption and save on bills.

Origin of 'kilowatt'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'kilowatt' comes from the prefix 'kilo-' meaning 'one thousand', combined with 'watt', named after Scottish engineer James Watt.
  • The watt is defined as the power of one joule per second, highlighting a connection to energy consumption over time.

The term 'kilowatt' originates from the metric system, where 'kilo-' is a prefix meaning one thousand. It first appeared in scientific literature in the late 19th century as engineers began to develop and apply electrical technologies that required standardization of measurements. The concept of measuring electrical power was essential for the development of electrical engineering and the growing field of electricity distribution. By the 20th century, kilowatts became a standard unit in both residential and industrial applications, playing a crucial role in energy consumption and efficiency discussions. Hence, it is frequently encountered in conversations about electricity usage, devices, and energy production.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,247, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.