rectifier

[rek-tuh-fahy-er] /ˈrɛk təˌfaɪ ər/
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.
Origin
1605-15; rectify + -er1
Examples from the web for rectifier
  • The usual way to do this would be to use a rectifier-a device that converts alternating to direct current.
  • At the time of the inspection, the operator had not conducted any rectifier inspections.
  • The alternator is connected to a battery bank via rectifier.
British Dictionary definitions for rectifier

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
Word Origin and History for rectifier
n.

1610s, agent noun from rectify.

rectifier in Science
rectifier
(rěk'tə-fī'ər)
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. Compare converter, transformer.

Encyclopedia Article for rectifier

device that converts alternating electric current into direct current. It may be an electron tube (either a vacuum or a gaseous type), vibrator, solid-state device, or mechanical device. Direct current is necessary for the operation of many devices such as radio and television receivers and certain power tools.

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