ignitron

[ ig-nahy-tron, ig-ni-tron ]

noun

, Electronics.

1. a cathode-arc vacuum tube with an auxiliary electrode projecting into a pool of mercury: it conducts current when the anode is positive.

ignitron

/ ˈɪɡnɪˌtrɒn; ɪɡˈnaɪtrɒn /

noun

1. a mercury-arc rectifier controlled by a subsidiary electrode, the igniter, partially immersed in a mercury cathode. A current passed between igniter and cathode forms a hot spot sufficient to strike an arc between cathode and anode

Word History and Origins

Origin of ignitron¹

First recorded in 1930–35; igni(ter) + -tron

Word History and Origins

Origin of ignitron¹

C20: from igniter + electron