open circuit

noun

, Electricity.

1. a discontinuous circuit through which no current can flow.

open circuit

noun

1. an incomplete electrical circuit in which no current flows Compare closed circuit

open circuit

/ ō′pən /

1. An electric circuit in which the normal path of current has been interrupted, either by the disconnection of one part of its conducting pathway from another, or by the intervention of an electric component, such as a transistor.
2. Compare closed circuit

Other Words From

• open-circuit adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of open circuit¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

It still meets safety standards for protection against impact or compression, as well as electrical hazard protection against open circuits up to 600 volts in dry conditions.

From Outside Online

Keep in mind the fact that the lamp will always burn on an open circuit and go out on a closed circuit.

From Project Gutenberg

Fire and burglar alarms are divided into two general types, called "open circuit" and "closed circuit," respectively.

From Project Gutenberg

The drop or relay controls a local circuit composed of an open-circuit battery and an ordinary vibrating bell.

From Project Gutenberg

The operation of a drop on a closed circuit is a little different from its operation on a normally open circuit.

From Project Gutenberg

(b) It polarizes easily yet it recovers well when left upon open circuit.

From Project Gutenberg