direct current

noun

1. Electricity. an electric current of constant direction, having a magnitude that does not vary or varies only slightly. : dc

direct current

noun

1. a continuous electric current that flows in one direction only, without substantial variation in magnitude DC Compare alternating current

direct current

/ dĭ-rĕkt′ /

1. An electric current that moves in one direction with constant strength. Batteries are a source of direct current. Direct current is not used for long-distance power transmission because it is difficult to step up the voltage to a level that is efficient for energy transfer and then to step the voltage back down again for safe domestic use.
2. Compare alternating currentSee Notes at current

direct current

1. The electric current (see also current ) in which the electrons flow in one direction only. ( Compare alternating current (AC) .)

Notes

DC is usually supplied by batteries .

Other Words From

• di·rect-current adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of direct current¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

A new converter station is being built close to Peterhead power station from where high voltage direct current cables will be laid on the seabed.

From BBC

One of the first West Coast reinforced concrete structures, the steam plant originally powered the Interurban Railway between Seattle and Tacoma and supplied direct current for Seattle streetcars and alternating current for Georgetown.

From Seattle Times

Tesla’s Supercharger network is coveted by other automakers because it has more direct current fast-charging plugs in the U.S. than any other network, and its stations are in prime locations along freeway travel corridors.

From Seattle Times

Both produce a direct current that can be converted into electricity immediately or stored in batteries for future use.

From Seattle Times

Once the construction is completed, it will convert 1,250 megawatts of clean energy from direct current to alternating current power that will be fed directly into the state's power grid.

From Reuters