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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
The shingle-style component—made of both glass solar and steel tiles—absorbs sunlight and converts direct current energy into alternating current energy that can power the home.
—Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 29 Oct. 2024
The inverter is bidirectional, so that alternating current produced by the e-axle under regenerative braking is turned into direct current to charge the battery.
—Jason Barlow, WIRED, 17 Oct. 2024
Climate entrepreneur Vic Shao is developing a new startup called DC Grid, focused on providing direct current, or DC, power, the founder tells Axios.
—Katie Fehrenbacher, Axios, 3 Sep. 2024
There is also room for greater efficiency after the electricity is generated, when power is lost as direct current (produced from the panels) is converted to alternating current (required for distribution by the electrical grid).
—Dickon Pinner, Foreign Affairs, 16 Feb. 2015
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Word History
First Known Use
1849, in the meaning defined above
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 15 Nov. 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
Nglish: Translation of direct current for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about direct current
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