electrical
UK: ɪˈlektrɪkəl | US: ɪˈlektrɪkəl
adj. relating to electricity or its production/distribution
adj. capable of producing or transmitting electricity
adj. (figuratively) thrilling or tense, as if charged with energy
electrical = electr<amber/electricity> + ical<adjective suffix>
- electr: Derived from Latin electrum (amber), which was associated with static electricity when rubbed. Later extended to mean "electricity" itself.
- ical: A suffix forming adjectives, often indicating "pertaining to" or "of the nature of" (e.g., musical, political).
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to the Greek ēlektron (amber), as ancient Greeks observed static electricity when amber was rubbed. The Latin electrum preserved this meaning, and by the 17th century, "electric" emerged to describe phenomena like lightning. The suffix -ical was added to form "electrical," emphasizing its adjectival use in scientific and technical contexts.
The electrical wiring in the old house needed urgent repairs.
She studied electrical engineering at university.
The storm caused widespread electrical outages.
His performance had an electrical intensity that captivated the audience.
Always turn off the main electrical supply before fixing appliances.