transformer

UK: trænsˈfɔːmə(r) | US: trænsˈfɔːrmər

Definition

  1. n. a device that changes the voltage of an alternating current

  2. n. a person or thing that transforms something

  3. n. (popular culture) a fictional robot that can change into a vehicle or other object

Structure
trans <across>form <shape>er <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "transformer" originates from Latin roots:

  • "trans-" (meaning "across" or "beyond")
  • "formare" (meaning "to shape" or "mold"), derived from "forma" (shape).
    The suffix "-er" denotes an agent or device performing an action.
    Originally used in electrical engineering (late 19th century) to describe devices that "transfer energy across circuits by reshaping voltage," it later expanded metaphorically to describe transformative people/objects. The sci-fi robots ("Transformers") popularized this meaning further.
Examples

  1. The power station uses a transformer to adjust voltage for residential use.

  2. Education can be a transformer of lives, opening new opportunities.

  3. The toy line features a transformer that converts from a truck to a robot.

  4. She acted as a transformer in the company, revolutionizing its workflow.

  5. Without a proper transformer, the electrical equipment might malfunction.