English Reference

Word

electronic

Phoneticselec·tron·ic

US/ˌɪˌɫɛkˈtɹɑnɪk/

UK/ˌɛlɪktɹˈɒnɪk/

Definitions

01using digital technology

A2 · Elementary Computing

adj. using small parts like microchips and electricity to process information.

adj. operating by means of the controlled conduction of electrons, especially in semiconductors and microchips.

“Most modern cars have an electronic system that monitors the engine.”

“The transition from mechanical to electronic components allowed for a significant reduction in the size of consumer hardware.”

Synonyms

Antonyms

02online or digital version

A2 · Elementary

adj. existing on a computer or the internet instead of on paper.

adj. referring to a digital or virtual medium that replaces a physical counterpart.

“You can send an electronic copy of the document by email.”

“The library has expanded its collection of electronic resources to include thousands of academic journals accessible from home.”

Antonyms

03music style

B1 · Intermediate Music

adj. music made using computers and special machines instead of traditional instruments.

adj. produced or modified by electronic devices, such as synthesizers or samplers.

“The festival features many different types of electronic music.”

“The composer experimented with electronic sounds to create an eerie atmosphere that traditional orchestral instruments could not achieve.”

Antonyms

04scientific

C1 · Advanced Science Technical

adj. relating to electrons, which are tiny particles inside atoms.

adj. pertaining to the behavior or properties of electrons within an atom or a vacuum.

“The scientist studied the electronic structure of the new material.”

“Understanding the electronic configuration of an element is essential for predicting its chemical reactivity and bonding patterns.”

Synonyms

05devices

A2 · Elementary Countable noun

n. small devices like phones or tablets that use electricity.

n. devices or systems that operate on the principles of electronics; usually used in the plural form 'electronics'.

“The shop sells a wide range of home electronics like TVs and cameras.”

“The recycling centre has a dedicated bin for old electronics to ensure that heavy metals are disposed of safely.”

Usage

Usually used in the plural form 'electronics' when referring to a category of products.

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “electronic” in context.

01. electronic devices 02. electronic health 03. electronic communication 04. electronic equipment 05. electronic form 06. electronic mail 07. electronic material 08. electronic system

Etymology

From electron + -ic.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

ADJECTIVE

electronic(A2)

Related words

Idioms

Domains

ChemistryElectronicsHardwarePhysics

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Common
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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