magnetron

American  

[mag-ni-tron] / ˈmæg nɪˌtrɒn /

noun

Electronics.

1. a two-element vacuum tube in which the flow of electrons is under the influence of an external magnetic field, used to generate extremely short radio waves.

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magnetron British  

/ ˈmæɡnɪˌtrɒn /

noun

1. an electronic valve with two coaxial electrodes used with an applied magnetic field to generate high-power microwave oscillations, esp for use in radar

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magnetron Scientific  

/ măg′nĭ-trŏn′ /

1. An electron tube that produces coherent microwave radiation. Magnetrons are diodes in which the electrons traveling to the anode are set in spiraling paths by a magnetic field created by permanent magnets. The circular component of the electrons' motion causes microwave-frequency oscillations in the voltage induced in resonating cavities built into the anode, which is connected to an antenna that emits the microwaves. Magnetrons are used in radar and in microwave ovens.

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Etymology

Origin of magnetron

First recorded in 1920–25; magne(to)- + -tron

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

magnetron

Instead, magnetron sputtering deposition creates the material from alloy vapor.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 31, 2026

The researchers produced the material using magnetron sputtering deposition, a process that applies a thin film to a surface.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 31, 2026

Dr. Ashkin worked at a Columbia University laboratory during World War II, developing a magnetron — a vacuum tube that generates microwaves — as part of an Army radar program.

From Washington Post ● Sep. 28, 2020

But eventually, the researchers found that the magnetron trap was better suited to the electron work.

From Nature ● May 16, 2017

“Align the diode with the capacitor and then move the magnetron seven degrees left.”

From "Klawde: Evil Alien Warlord Cat" by Johnny Marciano and Emily Chenoweth