electricity
UK: ɪˌlekˈtrɪsəti | US: ɪˌlekˈtrɪsəti
n. A form of energy resulting from the movement of charged particles (e.g., electrons), used to power devices.
n. The physical phenomenon associated with stationary or moving electric charges.
n. The supply of electric current to a building or device.
electricity = electr<amber> + icity<noun suffix>
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electr (from Greek ēlektron, meaning "amber"):
- Amber was historically observed to produce static electricity when rubbed.
- Later extended to describe all phenomena involving electric charge.
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icity (noun-forming suffix from Latin -icitas):
- Converts adjectives into nouns denoting a state or quality (e.g., "publicity" from "public").
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to William Gilbert's 1600 work De Magnete, where he coined electricus (Latin for "like amber") to describe static charge. The suffix -ity was added in the 1640s to form "electricity," formalizing the concept as a scientific term. The link to amber reflects early experiments with static electricity, showcasing how observation of nature shaped scientific vocabulary.
Modern life heavily depends on electricity for lighting and communication.
The storm caused a sudden loss of electricity in the neighborhood.
Scientists study electricity to develop more efficient energy sources.
Static electricity makes your hair stand up when you rub a balloon on it.
Benjamin Franklin's experiments with electricity revolutionized physics.