# electrostatic

/ˌɪˌɫɛktɹoʊˈstætɪk/ (US) · /ɪlˌɛktɹəʊstˈætɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/electrostatic
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

relating to the physical forces between objects that have an electric charge. You often hear this word when talking about things like static shocks or dust sticking to your clothes.

For teachers: relating to or caused by static electricity. Often describes forces or phenomena resulting from the accumulation of electric charges on the surface of materials.

## Examples

- The electrostatic charge made the plastic wrap stick to the table.
- During the dry winter months, electrostatic shocks are common when you touch a metal doorknob after walking on a wool carpet.
- The electrostatic precipitator uses high-voltage electricity to attract and trap fine particles from the air, making it an essential tool for industrial air purification.

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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.