A2adjective2K

Electric

UK /["/ɪˈlektrɪk/"]/US /["/ɪˈlektrɪk/"]/

Definition

connected with electricity; using, produced by or producing electricity

In simple words: Something that uses or can produce electricity.

Examples

  • an **electric car/vehicle**
  • an **electric guitar**
  • an **electric light/motor**
  • an **electric current/charge**
  • The wind turbine supplies the farm with **electric power**.
  • Electrically charged particles have **electric fields** around them as a result of their charge.
  • an electric generator
  • an electric plug/socket/switch *(= that carries electricity)*
  • The atmosphere was electric.
  • The news had an electric effect on the waiting crowd.

Usage notes

The word 'electric' can describe devices that run on electricity, such as electric cars or electric lights. It is generally used in formal, technical, and everyday contexts, but avoid using it in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think 'electric eel' – a fish that produces electricity!

Collocations

  • electric car
  • electric current
  • electric shock
  • electric guitar
  • electric power

Synonyms

  • electrifying

Antonyms

  • manual
  • non-electric
  • battery-operated

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'electrical' when referring to systems or engineering.
  • Using 'electric' to describe a battery, instead of 'battery-operated'.