# Darlington

/ˈdɑɹɫɪŋtən/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/darlington
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a special way of connecting two transistors to make a very strong electrical signal. It acts like a single, more powerful switch for controlling electricity in machines.

For teachers: a compound structure consisting of two bipolar transistors connected such that the current amplified by the first is further amplified by the second. Often used in power regulation and switching circuits to achieve high current gain.

## Examples

- The circuit uses a Darlington pair to drive the motor.
- Engineers chose a Darlington configuration for the output stage to ensure the weak sensor signal could trigger the heavy-duty relay.
- By integrating two transistors into a single Darlington package, the designer achieved the necessary gain while significantly reducing the physical footprint on the printed circuit board.

## Usage notes

- Often appears in the phrase 'Darlington pair' or 'Darlington transistor'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.