ENGLISH
REFERENCE

electronics

n.
US //ˌɪˌɫɛkˈtɹɑnɪks// UK //ˌɛlɪktɹˈɒnɪks// elec·tron·ics
  1. 1 electronic devices (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    equipment such as computers, phones, or televisions that use small electrical parts.

    devices that operate by controlling the flow of electrons through semiconductors and other components. Often used in the plural.

    Example

    You should turn off all your personal electronics before the plane takes off.

    Example

    The recycling centre has a dedicated section for consumer electronics, ensuring that hazardous materials from old laptops and tablets are handled safely.

    Usage

    Usually treated as a plural noun when referring to physical objects.
  2. 2 the field of study (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic Science

    the science or industry of designing and building electronic equipment.

    the branch of physics and technology concerned with the design of circuits using transistors and microchips.

    Example

    He decided to study electronics because he wanted to design his own robots.

    Example

    Advances in power electronics have been crucial for the development of efficient electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems.

    Usage

    Treated as a singular noun when referring to the field of study.
    • electrical engineering
  3. 3 internal circuitry (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Technical

    the internal parts and circuits that make a machine work.

    the specific arrangement of electronic components and circuits within a particular device.

    Example

    The water damaged the internal electronics of the camera, so it won't turn on.

    Example

    The engineer examined the electronics of the prototype to identify which component was causing the signal interference.
Origin

From electron + -ics.

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

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Last updated June 19, 2026