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circuit breaker
noun
: a switch that automatically interrupts the current of an overloaded electric circuit
Examples of circuit breaker in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
How to restart a nuclear reactor Alas, restarting a nuclear power plant doesn’t involve flipping a comically large circuit breaker.
—Umair Irfan, Vox, 7 Dec. 2018
Steen’s concerns came as the utility’s board in the same meeting also approved spending $190 million for three projects related to underground infrastructure, engineering plans and circuit breakers.
—Sara Dinatale, San Antonio Express-News, 2 Oct. 2024
If a circuit breaker has been tripped, contact an electrician to inspect them before turning them on.
—Julia Gomez, USA TODAY, 10 Oct. 2024
Around 40% of the company’s circuit breakers were installed between 1930 and 1960, according to the audit.
—Arpan Lobo, Detroit Free Press, 24 Sep. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1872, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near circuit breaker
Cite this Entry
“Circuit breaker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/circuit%20breaker. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.
Kids Definition
circuit breaker
noun
: a switch that automatically stops the flow of electric current in an overloaded circuit
More from Merriam-Webster on circuit breaker
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about circuit breaker
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