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.
Its internal state behaves like a qubit, while its motion acts as a quantum harmonic oscillator that can occupy many different motional states.
From Science Daily ● Jun. 15, 2026
As it gradually weakened, the time crystal interacted with a nearby mechanical oscillator.
From Science Daily ● May 5, 2026
Combining the stochastic oscillator with support and resistance improves results.
From Barron's ● Apr. 10, 2026
The net effect is that the breadth oscillator buy signals that were confirmed in mid-January are still in effect.
From MarketWatch ● Jan. 22, 2026
Reflecting Lawrence’s lack of conceit when it came to engineering, the machine incorporated the latest innovations of cyclotroneers across the country in designs for transformers, power transmission, the oscillator, and the ion source.
From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
