electric current

noun

, Electricity.

1. the time rate of flow of electric charge, in the direction that a positive moving charge would take and having magnitude equal to the quantity of charge per unit time: measured in amperes.

electric current

noun

1. another name for current

current, electric

¹

1. The flow of electrical charge , usually electrons . ( See Benjamin Franklin .)

current, electric

²

1. The flow of large numbers of electrons through a conductor . ( See alternating current , conduction , and direct current .)

Word History and Origins

Origin of electric current¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

That stream of charged particles produces an electric current, which flows out of the battery to power whatever needs powering.

From MIT Technology Review

The Nationals’ biggest spring training roster questions are all on the marginsThe sense of a common experience, even though processed much differently, runs like a faint electric current through everyone who remembers.

From Washington Post

A new slow-motion video offers the best view yet of the split-second collision of electric currents that creates a flash of lightning.

From Science News

That could create a very short, but powerful surge of electric current, Neubert says.

From Science News For Students

Those reactions create charges that let the battery provide an electric current.

From Science News For Students