alternator

noun

al·​ter·​na·​tor ˈȯl-tər-ˌnā-tər How to pronounce alternator (audio)
 also  ˈal-
: an electric generator for producing alternating current

Examples of alternator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The only room left for the pumps and alternator is at the rear of the block where they are belt-driven from a jackshaft that runs back along the top of the intake manifold. Car and Driver, 13 Jan. 2023 Other problem areas identified by 2023 recall data include issues with tires, faults with child seats, and electrical system problems such as faulty batteries, starters or alternators. USA TODAY, 12 Jan. 2024 It can also be integrated into your van or RV’s solar when parked off-grid or charged from your vehicle’s alternator when driving when combined with the Yeti Vehicle Integration Kit. Thomas Ricker, The Verge, 3 Oct. 2023 Regardless, your generator has five primary parts: an internal combustion engine, an alternator, a starter, a fuel tank, and outlets. Roy Berendsohn, Popular Mechanics, 9 Dec. 2022 The model number is printed on a label on the heat shield between the engine and alternator of the generator. Elizabeth Napolitano, CBS News, 18 Sep. 2023 With approximately 115,000 km (71,000 miles) on the clock, this car has had a bunch of recent mechanical work, including replacement of the timing belt, water pump, alternator, valve cover gasket, front outer CV boots, front anti-roll-bar links, and brake fluid. Joe Lorio, Car and Driver, 15 June 2022 Carryover parts from the current car are few—even the venerable 3.8-liter V-6 has undergone some fairly extensive changes, including a new harmonic balancer, power-steering pump, alternator, transmission-oil pump, and induction and air-cleaner system. Steven Cole Smith, Car and Driver, 2 Sep. 2023 One of the errands included buying an alternator for his vehicle from an auto parts store. Greg Wehner, Fox News, 18 July 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'alternator.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alternator was in 1883

Dictionary Entries Near alternator

Cite this Entry

“Alternator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alternator. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

alternator

noun
al·​ter·​na·​tor ˈȯl-tər-ˌnāt-ər How to pronounce alternator (audio)
 also  ˈal-
: an electric generator for producing alternating current

More from Merriam-Webster on alternator

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