# tesla

/ˈtɛsɫə/ (US) · /tˈɛslɐ/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 2. scientific unit

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a unit used by scientists to measure how strong a magnet is.

For teachers: the SI derived unit of magnetic flux density. One tesla is equal to one weber per square metre.

- The MRI machine uses a very strong magnet measured in teslas.
- The laboratory's new superconducting magnet can generate a field of several teslas, requiring specialized cooling systems to maintain stability.

Usage: The symbol for this unit is a capital 'T'.

### 3. Nikola Tesla

noun · CEFR B2

the last name of Nikola Tesla, a famous inventor who worked with electricity.

For teachers: the surname of Nikola Tesla (1856–1943), the Serbian-American inventor and engineer known for his contributions to alternating current (AC) electricity.

- Many modern technologies are based on the early inventions of Tesla.
- Historians often debate the professional rivalry between Tesla and Edison regarding the standardization of electrical distribution systems.

## Examples

- The MRI machine uses a powerful three tesla magnet.
- In high-energy physics experiments, superconducting magnets are often pushed to several teslas to steer particle beams at nearly the speed of light.

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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.