Definition

1. Noun:
   • A device that produces electricity; may have several primary or secondary cells arranged in parallel or series: An "electric battery" is a self-contained power source that converts stored chemical energy into electrical energy. It consists of one or more electrochemical cells with external connections for powering electrical devices.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The remote control needs a new electric battery. (The device providing power to the remote control is depleted.)
  • He inserted the electric battery into the flashlight. (He placed the power source into the device.)
  • Modern electric batteries are essential for portable electronics. (The electricity-producing devices are crucial for mobile gadgets.)

Advanced Usage

• Technical Context: In engineering, the term specifies the power source as distinct from a fuel cell or generator.
  • The circuit design includes a 9-volt electric battery.
• Historical/Legacy Context: Sometimes used to distinguish from early, non-electrochemical "batteries" (e.g., a battery of cannons).
  • Volta's invention of the electric battery was a milestone.

Variants and Related Words

• Battery (n): The more common, shortened form of "electric battery."
  • My car battery is dead.
• Cell (n): A single electricity-generating unit; a battery contains one or more cells.
  • This battery contains six lithium-ion cells.
• Accumulator (n): A term for a rechargeable battery, common in British English.
• Power cell (n): Another term for a single battery cell, often used in technical contexts.

Synonyms

• Power source: A general term for any device that supplies energy.
• Cell: Specifically refers to the basic electrochemical unit.
• Storage battery: Emphasizes the rechargeable nature of some batteries.

Related Phrases

• Battery pack: A collection of multiple batteries or cells combined into a single unit.
  • The laptop's battery pack is not removable.
• Battery life: The duration a battery can power a device before needing recharge or replacement.
  • Smartphone battery life is a key concern for users.

Related Idioms

• To recharge one's batteries: (Idiom) To rest and regain one's energy. This idiom draws a metaphorical comparison to recharging an electric battery.
  • After the stressful project, I took a vacation to recharge my batteries.

Noun

1. a device that produces electricity; may have several primary or secondary cells arranged in parallel or series