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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
These devices convert direct-current electricity to grid-compatible alternating current, and allow batteries, solar photovoltaics and wind turbines to connect to the grid.
—IEEE Spectrum, 24 Dec. 2024
Grid-forming converters for HVDC, which convert high-voltage direct current to alternating current and vice versa, are also commercially available, from companies including Hitachi, Siemens, and GE Vernova.
—Benjamin Kroposki, IEEE Spectrum, 13 Apr. 2024
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
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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 6 Jan. 2025.
Kids Definition
alternating current
noun
: an electric current that reverses its direction at regular intervals
—abbreviation AC
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