direct current

noun

: an electric current flowing in one direction only and substantially constant in value
abbreviation DC

Examples of direct current in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Transcranial direct current stimulation is a noninvasive, painless brain stimulation technique that uses low-intensity electrical currents to stimulate specific parts of the brain. Kristen Rogers, CNN, 17 Dec. 2024 Adding a powered line to an antenna is unusual, says RF and microwave design engineer Michael Sherburne, because the direct current can interfere with transmissions. IEEE Spectrum, 14 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 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 See all Example Sentences for direct current 

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of direct current was in 1849

Dictionary Entries Near direct current

Cite this Entry

“Direct current.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/direct%20current. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

direct current

noun
: an electric current flowing in one direction only
abbreviation DC

Medical Definition

direct current

noun
: an electric current flowing in one direction only and substantially constant in value
abbreviation DC

More from Merriam-Webster on direct current

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!