# AMPS

/ˈæmps/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/amps
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the units used to measure how much electricity is flowing through a wire or a device.

For teachers: the plural form of the base unit of electric current in the International System of Units. Often used in technical or household contexts to describe the capacity of a fuse or the power draw of an appliance.

## Examples

- This microwave uses about ten amps of power.
- The electrician checked the circuit breaker to see if it could handle the extra amps required by the new air conditioner.
- Calculating the total load in amps is essential for preventing electrical fires, as drawing too much current through thin wiring causes significant heat buildup.

## Usage notes

- Takes plural verb agreement; often abbreviated from 'amperes' in both speech and technical writing.

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