amplifier
UK: ˈæmplɪfaɪə | US: ˈæmplɪfaɪər
n. a device that increases the amplitude of electrical signals, sound, or other waves
n. (figuratively) something that intensifies or magnifies an effect
The word "amplifier" combines the Latin root amplus (meaning "large" or "ample") with facere (meaning "to make"). The suffix -fier evolved from the Latin -ficare, a verb-forming element indicating causation. Originally used in French (amplifier), the term entered English in the 16th century, initially referring to rhetorical expansion before specializing in electronics by the early 20th century. The morphemes reflect the device’s function: "to make larger" (amplify signals).
The guitarist plugged his instrument into the amplifier to boost the sound.
Social media can act as an amplifier of misinformation.
Engineers designed a high-efficiency amplifier for the audio system.
The speaker used humor as an emotional amplifier during the presentation.
This circuit includes a transistor amplifier to strengthen weak signals.