electromotive force

noun

Electricity.

1. the energy available for conversion from nonelectric to electric form, or vice versa, per unit of charge passing through the source of the energy; the potential difference between the terminals of a source of electrical energy: expressed in volts. emf, EMF, E.M.F., e.m.f.

electromotive force

noun

1. physics

   1. a source of energy that can cause a current to flow in an electrical circuit or device

   2. E. Abbreviation: emf.  EMF. the rate at which energy is drawn from this source when unit current flows through the circuit or device, measured in volts Compare potential difference

electromotive force

1. Electric potential or voltage. Electromotive force is not really a force, but a measure of how much work would be done by moving an electric charge.

Word History and Origins

Origin of electromotive force¹

First recorded in 1825–35