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alternating current
noun
: an electric current that reverses its direction at regularly recurring intervals
—abbreviation AC
Examples of alternating current in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The whole array is hardwired to a compact power unit in the rear of the car, which converts solar power into 120-volt alternating current.
—Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 10 Dec. 2024
Electricity generated at power plants has what’s called an alternating current — its direction swaps 60 times per second.
—Evan Simko-Bednarski, New York Daily News, 3 Nov. 2024
This gear converted grid power to direct current and then converted it back to alternating current—conversions that consumed a full 6 percent of the plant’s electricity.
—IEEE Spectrum, 3 Sep. 2024
The shingle-style component—made of both glass solar and steel tiles—absorbs sunlight and converts direct current energy into alternating current energy that can power the home.
—Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 29 Oct. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1833, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of alternating current was
in 1833
Dictionary Entries Near alternating current
Cite this Entry
“Alternating current.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alternating%20current. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.
Kids Definition
alternating current
noun
: an electric current that reverses its direction at regular intervals
—abbreviation AC
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