transistor
[ tran-zis-ter ]
/ trænˈzɪs tər /
noun
Electronics.
a semiconductor device that amplifies, oscillates, or switches the flow of current between two terminals by varying the current or voltage between one of the terminals and a third: although much smaller in size than a vacuum tube, it performs similar functions without requiring current to heat a cathode.
Informal.
a transistorized radio.
adjective
Informal.
transistorized: a transistor radio.
Origin of transistor
First recorded in 1945–50;
trans(fer) +
(res)istor
Words nearby transistor
Example sentences from the Web for transistor
British Dictionary definitions for transistor
transistor
/ (trænˈzɪstə) /
noun
a semiconductor device, having three or more terminals attached to electrode regions, in which current flowing between two electrodes is controlled by a voltage or current applied to one or more specified electrodes. The device is capable of amplification, etc, and has replaced the valve in most circuits since it is much smaller, more robust, and works at a much lower voltage
See also junction transistor, field-effect transistor
informal
a transistor radio
Word Origin for transistor
C20: originally a trademark, from
transfer +
resistor, referring to the transfer of electric signals across a resistor
Scientific definitions for transistor
transistor
[ trăn-zĭs′tər ]
An electronic device that controls the flow of an electric current, most often used as an amplifier or switch. Transistors usually consist of three layers of semiconductor material, in which the flow of electric current across the outer layer is regulated by the voltage or current applied at the middle layer. Having replaced the vacuum tube, transistors are the basis of much modern electronic technology, including the microprocessor. See also logic circuit logic gate.
Cultural definitions for transistor
transistor
An electronic device that can work as an amplifier, transforming weak electrical signals into strong ones. It is normally made from silicon or other semiconductors.
notes for transistor
The transistor is the basic device used in miniaturized electronic systems, such as portable radios, or as a fast switch in
computers.