photovoltaics
Americannoun
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(used with a singular verb) a field of semiconductor technology involving the direct conversion of electromagnetic radiation as sunlight, into electricity.
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(used with a plural verb) devices designed to perform such conversion.
Etymology
Origin of photovoltaics
First recorded in 1975–80; see origin at photovoltaic, -ics
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.
The government’s crackdown on excessive competition and price wars in sectors such as photovoltaics and steel has also weighed on operating rates, he added.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 29, 2026
Some places are still building concentrated solar facilities, among them China, Mexico and Dubai, and it can have some advantages over photovoltaics, he said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 11, 2026
The couple filled their hilltop home with many eco-friendly elements, including photovoltaics that span the length of the main structure and produce more power than the property requires.
From MarketWatch ● Dec. 17, 2025
"The pace varies, but renewables grow faster than any other major energy source in all scenarios, led by solar photovoltaics," the agency, which advises mostly developed nations, said in its 518-page report.
From Barron's ● Nov. 12, 2025
"By chemically reinforcing the protective layers, we've significantly advanced the durability of these cells without compromising their exceptional efficiency, bringing us closer to a practical, low-cost alternative to silicon-based photovoltaics."
From Science Daily ● Nov. 21, 2024
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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.
