oscillator
Americannoun
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Electronics. a circuit that produces an alternating output current of a certain frequency determined by the characteristics of the circuit components.
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a device or machine producing oscillations.
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a person or thing that oscillates.
noun
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a circuit or instrument for producing an alternating current or voltage of a required frequency
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any instrument for producing oscillations
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a person or thing that oscillates
Etymology
Origin of oscillator
1825–35; < New Latin, equivalent to Latin oscillā ( re ) to swing ( see oscillate) + -tor -tor
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
As the oscillators heated up, the sound changed.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 26, 2026
These oscillators describe a wide range of physical systems, including light, vibrations, and the motion of trapped particles.
From Science Daily • Jun. 15, 2026
Quantum harmonic oscillators, which can occupy many energy levels, offer a far richer set of possibilities.
From Science Daily • Jun. 15, 2026
Both market breadth oscillators generated sell signals about a week ago.
From MarketWatch • May 22, 2026
But as Lawrence informed Cottrell, the magnet would require its own building and a brand-new array of high-powered oscillators and other accessories.
From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
