amp

UK: æmp | US: æmp

Definition

  1. n. 1. Short for "ampere," the unit of electric current.

  2. n. 2. Informal abbreviation for "amplifier," a device that increases the power of audio signals.

  3. n. 3. Informal abbreviation for "ampoule," a small sealed glass container for medicine.

Structure

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Etymology

The word "amp" is a clipped form derived from three distinct full words:

  1. Ampere: Named after French physicist André-Marie Ampère, the term was shortened for convenience in technical contexts.
  2. Amplifier: A colloquial abbreviation in music and electronics, reflecting the trend of shortening longer technical terms.
  3. Ampoule: A medical term borrowed from French, where "ampoule" means "small vial," later clipped in informal usage.
    The versatility of "amp" showcases how abbreviations evolve from specialized jargon into everyday language.
Examples

  1. The circuit requires a current of 5 amps to function properly.

  2. He plugged his guitar into the amp before the concert.

  3. The nurse broke the amp to administer the injection.

  4. This stereo system includes a built-in amp for better sound quality.

  5. Always check the amp rating when replacing a fuse.