attenuator

[ uh-ten-yoo-ey-ter ]

noun

, Electronics.

1. a device for decreasing the amplitude of an electronic signal.

attenuator

/ əˈtɛnjʊˌeɪtə /

noun

1. physics any device designed to reduce the power of a wave or electrical signal without distorting it
2. a person or thing that attenuates

Word History and Origins

Origin of attenuator¹

First recorded in 1920–25; attenuate + -or ²

Example Sentences

The new 0.6-mile route replaces one general traffic lane of West Marginal Way Southwest with waist-high concrete dividers for the two-way bike lane, along with yellow-and-black steel attenuators that prevent drivers from impaling their cars.

From Seattle Times

The race ended under a caution that started with five laps left as Sato’s teammate, Spencer Pigot, crashed hard in turn four and destroyed the attenuator at the end of the pit row wall.

From Fox News

After a Toyota Prius crashed into it two months earlier, the length of the attenuator was shortened, offering less protection against the three-foot-tall concrete median wall behind it.

From Los Angeles Times

The attenuator is designed to absorb crash forces before a vehicle hits a concrete median barrier.

From Reuters

Investigators found that California’s transit department hadn’t fixed the attenuator, despite an estimated repair time of “15 to 30 minutes” and an average cost of “less than $100.”

From The Verge