thermostat

UK: ˈθɜː.mə.stæt | US: ˈθɜːr.moʊ.stæt

Definition

  1. n. a device that automatically regulates temperature by controlling heating or cooling equipment.

Structure
thermo <heat>stat <standing/stabilizing>
Etymology

The word "thermostat" combines two Greek-derived morphemes:

  • "thermo" (from Greek thermos, meaning "heat") refers to temperature.
  • "stat" (from Greek statos, meaning "standing" or "stable") implies regulation or stabilization.
    Originally coined in the 19th century, the term reflects the device's function of maintaining a "stable heat" environment. The logic mirrors other "-stat" words (e.g., "hemostat" for blood control, "thermostat" for heat control).
Examples

  1. The thermostat keeps the room at a comfortable 22°C.

  2. She adjusted the thermostat to save energy.

  3. Smart thermostats learn your schedule and optimize heating.

  4. The office thermostat is always set too low in summer.

  5. A faulty thermostat can cause overheating in engines.