Word
resistor
Phoneticsre·sis·tor, stress on the second syllable
US/ɹɪˈzɪstɝ/
UK/ɹɪsˈɪstɐ/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a small part in an electronic circuit that controls the flow of electricity. It makes it harder for the current to pass through, which helps protect other parts from getting too much power.
n. a passive two-terminal electrical component that implements electrical resistance as a circuit element. It reduces current flow and lowers voltage levels within circuits.
Examples
“The resistor prevents the LED from burning out.”
“If the circuit draws too much current, you may need to replace the resistor with one that has a higher value.”
“In this specific amplifier design, the resistor is used to set the gain and ensure the transistor operates within its linear region without overheating.”
Examples
simple
“The resistor prevents the LED from burning out.”
contextual
“If the circuit draws too much current, you may need to replace the resistor with one that has a higher value.”
complex
“In this specific amplifier design, the resistor is used to set the gain and ensure the transistor operates within its linear region without overheating.”
Usage
Commonly measured in ohms; often identified by a series of coloured bands that indicate its resistance value.
Etymology
From resist + -or.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Domains
- 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.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL 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: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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