direct current

American  

noun

1. Electricity.  an electric current of constant direction, having a magnitude that does not vary or varies only slightly. dc

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direct current British  

noun

1.  DC.  a continuous electric current that flows in one direction only, without substantial variation in magnitude Compare alternating current

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direct current Scientific  

/ dĭ-rĕkt′ /

1. An electric current that moves in one direction with constant strength. Batteries are a source of direct current. Direct current is not used for long-distance power transmission because it is difficult to step up the voltage to a level that is efficient for energy transfer and then to step the voltage back down again for safe domestic use.

2. Compare alternating current See Notes at current Tesla

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direct current Cultural  

1. The electric current (see also current) in which the electrons flow in one direction only. (Compare alternating current (AC).)

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Discover More

DC is usually supplied by batteries.

Other Word Forms

• direct-current adjective

Etymology

Origin of direct current

First recorded in 1885–90

Compare meaning

How does direct-current compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• direct current vs. alternating current

Example Sentences

Some solar farms are recorded in MW direct current, or else an unknown capacity rating.

From Barron's

Two basic technologies are used to interconnect parts of a grid or countries - a standard transmission line that carries alternating currents, and increasingly, high voltage direct current lines.

From BBC

A new converter station is being built close to Peterhead power station from where high voltage direct current cables will be laid on the seabed.

From BBC

One of the first West Coast reinforced concrete structures, the steam plant originally powered the Interurban Railway between Seattle and Tacoma and supplied direct current for Seattle streetcars and alternating current for Georgetown.

From Seattle Times

Tesla’s Supercharger network is coveted by other automakers because it has more direct current fast-charging plugs in the U.S. than any other network, and its stations are in prime locations along freeway travel corridors.

From Seattle Times