Commutator Meaning
/ˌkɑmjəˈteɪtˈɔr/Definition, CEFR level C2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounAn electrical switch, in a generator or motor, that periodically reverses the direction of an electric current.
nounA binary map in a given group G, given by [g, h] = ghg⁻¹h⁻¹, where g and h are elements of G, which yields the group's identity if and only if the group operation commutes for g and h.
Sentence Examples
The commutator controlled the electric current.
He designed a new commutator system.
The technician repaired the worn commutator of the electric motor.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The electric motor's ____ ensures proper current flow to the rotor windings.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The electrical engineer carefully replaced the worn-out ____ inside the large industrial motor.
Word Origin & History
Back-formation from commutation (in the late 19th century), as is commutate (verb) too.
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CEFR Practice Quiz
The electric motor's ____ ensures proper current flow to the rotor windings.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The electrical engineer carefully replaced the worn-out ____ inside the large industrial motor.