zener diode

noun

ze·​ner diode ˈzē-nər- How to pronounce zener diode (audio) ˈze- How to pronounce zener diode (audio)
often capitalized Z
: a silicon semiconductor device used especially as a voltage regulator

Word History

Etymology

Clarence M. Zener †1993 American physicist

First Known Use

1952, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of zener diode was in 1952

Dictionary Entries Near zener diode

Cite this Entry

“Zener diode.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zener%20diode. Accessed 19 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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