resistor

[ ri-zis-ter ]

noun

, Electricity.

1. a device designed to introduce resistance into an electric circuit.

resistor

/ rɪˈzɪstə /

noun

1. an electrical component designed to introduce a known value of resistance into a circuit

resistor

/ rĭ-zĭs′tər /

1. A device used in electrical circuits to maintain a constant relation between current flow and voltage. Resistors are used to step up or lower the voltage at different points in a circuit and to transform a current signal into a voltage signal or vice versa, among other uses. The electrical behavior of a resistor obeys Ohm's law for a constant resistance; however, some resistors are sensitive to heat, light, or other variables.
2. ◆ Variable resistors , or rheostats , have a resistance that may be varied across a certain range, usually by means of a mechanical device that alters the position of one terminal of the resistor along a strip of resistant material. The length of the intervening material determines the resistance. Mechanical variable resistors are also called potentiometers, and are used in the volume knobs of audio equipment and in many other devices.
3. Compare capacitorSee more at Ohm's law

Word History and Origins

Origin of resistor¹

First recorded in 1900–05; resist + -or ²

Example Sentences

These objects are juxtaposed alongside digital detritus — circuit boards, resistors — that line the wooden boxes like wallpaper.

From New York Times

These subpopulations of resistor cells can survive treatment and are able to grow and multiply, resulting in chronic infections.

From Science Daily

"Its hand is on the trigger, and its resistors are in the highest levels of readiness and preparedness," it added.

From BBC

In addition to the resistor and microfluidic, they use the printer to add a thin, continuous layer of PLA that is sandwiched between them.

From Science Daily

In an interview with Al Jazeera, he said "not a single bullet" had been fired - because "there are no resistors or detainees" inside.

From BBC