electrician

American  

[ih-lek-trish-uhn, ee-lek-] / ɪ lɛkˈtrɪʃ ən, ˌi lɛk- /

noun

1. a person who installs, operates, maintains, or repairs electric devices or electrical wiring.

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electrician British  

/ ˌiːlɛk-, ɪlɛkˈtrɪʃən /

noun

1. a person whose occupation is the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical devices

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Etymology

Origin of electrician

An Americanism dating back to 1745–55; electric + -ian

Explanation

An electrician is a person whose job involves fixing or installing electrical wiring systems. If you keep blowing fuses in your kitchen, you may need to hire an electrician to fix your house's wiring. While electricians also work on airplanes, ships, and various kinds of machines, most electricians do their job in houses and buildings that are wired for electricity to run lights, appliances, computers, and other gadgets. To work as an electrician, you need to be trained and licensed, which is especially important because of how dangerous electricity can be. In the 18th century, electricians were "scientists concerned with electricity," but by the late 1800s they were "electrical technicians."

Example Sentences

He is an electrician and works above ground, which makes his job less risky than those who venture into the mines.

From BBC • May 31, 2026

He’s started applying for bartending jobs—he recently took a two-week bartending course—and has considered training to become an electrician, which he considers more AI-proof.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 27, 2026

"We believe there will be some kind of change across the whole country," added the 55-year-old electrician, who used to vote for Orban's Fidesz party.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

People with knowledge of crofting and skills as an electrician, joiner or working with boats are among those being sought for the tenancy.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

Davis’s eventual successor was his former assistant, an electrician named John Hulbert.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover