arrestor

arrestor

A lightning arrestor protects the building during a storm.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A device that stops or prevents something: "arrestor" refers to a mechanism or apparatus designed to halt motion, absorb energy, or interrupt a process, often for safety purposes.
    • An electrical surge protector: In electrical engineering, an "arrestor" (short for "surge arrestor") is a device that protects equipment from voltage spikes by diverting excess current to the ground.
    • A person who makes an arrest: In legal or law enforcement contexts, "arrestor" can mean an individual who carries out the act of arresting someone.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The aircraft carrier uses a cable arrestor to stop landing planes. (A mechanical device that halts motion.)
    • A lightning arrestor was installed on the roof to protect the building from storms. (An electrical safety device.)
    • The police officer acted as the arrestor, taking the suspect into custody. (A person who performs an arrest.)
Advanced Usage

  • "surge arrestor": a specific type of arrestor used in power systems to limit transient overvoltages.

    • The surge arrestor prevented damage to the transformer during the lightning strike. (It diverted excess electrical energy.)

  • "flame arrestor": a device that stops the propagation of flames in pipelines or vents.

    • A flame arrestor is essential in chemical plants to prevent explosions. (It blocks flame travel.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Arrest (verb/noun): to stop or seize; the act of taking into custody.

    • The police arrested the criminal. (Verb: to take into custody.)
    • The arrest was made without incident. (Noun: the act of seizing.)

  • Arrester (noun): an alternative spelling of "arrestor," often used interchangeably.

    • The arrester gear on the ship caught the helicopter's hook. (Same meaning as "arrestor.")
Synonyms
  • Stopper: something that prevents movement or flow.
  • Catcher: a device or person that captures or halts something.
  • Preventer: something that stops an event or action.
Related Idioms

  • Arrest the process: to bring a procedure to a stop.

    • The new regulations will arrest the process of deforestation. (Stop or halt the activity.)

  • Under arrest: being held in custody by law enforcement.

    • The suspect was placed under arrest. (Detained by police.)