ignitron

[ ig-nahy-tron, ig-ni-tron ]

noun

, Electronics.

1. a cathode-arc vacuum tube with an auxiliary electrode projecting into a pool of mercury: it conducts current when the anode is positive.

ignitron

/ ɪɡˈnaɪtrɒn; ˈɪɡnɪˌtrɒn /

noun

1. a mercury-arc rectifier controlled by a subsidiary electrode, the igniter, partially immersed in a mercury cathode. A current passed between igniter and cathode forms a hot spot sufficient to strike an arc between cathode and anode

Word History and Origins

Origin of ignitron¹

First recorded in 1930–35; igni(ter) + -tron

Word History and Origins

Origin of ignitron¹

C20: from igniter + electron

Example Sentences

Scheduled performer was Westinghouse's versatile "Ignitron" tube, invented by Drs. Joseph Slepian, 44, and Leon Robert Ludwig, 30.

From Time Magazine Archive

A 5-in. glass sphere with tubular extensions on opposite sides, the Ignitron is an ordinary mercury vapor lamp except that the electrodes are the pool of mercury in the bottom of the sphere and a graphite pole above it.

From Time Magazine Archive