cold cathode

noun

Electronics.

1. a cathode, in an electron tube cold-cathodetube or lamp, that emits electrons without having to be heated.

cold cathode

noun

1. electronics a cathode from which electrons are emitted at ambient temperature, due to a high potential gradient at the surface

Word History and Origins

Origin of cold cathode¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

It also is known as a cold cathode display.

From Forbes

It's best viewed from its center, where its cold cathode tubes flicker in a pattern in a ring around you.

From Seattle Times