rectifier

[ rek-tuh-fahy-er ]

noun

1. a person or thing that rectifies.
2. Electricity. an apparatus in which current flows more readily in one direction than the other, for changing an alternating current into a direct current.
3. the apparatus that in distillation separates the most volatile material by condensing it; condenser.

rectifier

/ ˈrɛktɪˌfaɪə /

noun

1. an electronic device, such as a semiconductor diode or valve, that converts an alternating current to a direct current by suppression or inversion of alternate half cycles
2. chem an apparatus for condensing a hot vapour to a liquid in distillation; condenser
3. a thing or person that rectifies

rectifier

/ rĕk′tə-fī′ər /

1. An electrical device that converts alternating current to direct current. Rectifiers are most often made of a combination of diodes, which allow current to pass in one direction only.
2. Compare converter

Word History and Origins

Origin of rectifier¹

First recorded in 1605–15; rectify + -er ¹

Example Sentences

The New York City subway system also runs on DC, and was using mercury arc rectifiers into the 1990s.

From Seattle Times

This breakthrough holds significant potential for various electronic devices such as transistors, rectifiers, and selection elements.

From Science Daily

The receiving antenna array composed of 14 antennas converts the millimeter wave signal emitted by the charging pile into electric energy through the rectifier circuit, to turn the sci-fi charging experience into reality.

From The Verge

However, the realization of an ideal superconducting rectifier, in which the zero-resistance state is retained in only one direction, has been both lacking and highly anticipated.

From Nature

He ticked off a list of what these folks, called rectifiers, would use to cheaply mimic flavors of spirits: honey and beets but also ammonia, turpentine and charred animal bones.

From Washington Post