transformer

noun

trans·​form·​er tran(t)s-ˈfȯr-mər 

: one that transforms

specifically : a device employing the principle of mutual induction to convert variations of current in a primary circuit into variations of voltage and current in a secondary circuit

Examples of transformer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Hardly anyone in Britain would disagree: Only a few weeks ago, Heathrow Airport shut down after a single transformer at an old substation caught on fire. —Javier Blas/bloomberg Opinion, Boston Herald, 29 Apr. 2025

Much of the hardware on the grid — transformers, busbars, and switchgear — dates back to the 1960s and is nearing the end of its life. —Umair Irfan, Vox, 22 Apr. 2025

This has been the case consistently since transformers were introduced. —David Talby, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025

Zoom in: Heron plans to manufacture solid-state electrical transformers in the U.S. Transformers adjust electricity voltage and are in short supply as grids face surging electricity demand from power-hungry AI data centers. —Alan Neuhauser, Axios, 7 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1596, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing transformer

• Tesla transformer

Rhymes for transformer

• conformer
• informer
• performer
• reformer
• dormer
• former
• warmer

Kids Definition

transformer

noun

trans·​form·​er tran(t)s-ˈfȯr-mər 

: a device for changing an electric current into one of different voltage