polyphase

American  

[pol-ee-feyz] / ˈpɒl iˌfeɪz /

adjective

Electricity.

1. having more than one phase.

2. of or relating to a set of alternating currents that have the same frequency but different phases and that enter a specified region at more than two points.

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polyphase British  

/ ˈpɒlɪˌfeɪz /

adjective

1. Also: multiphase.  (of an electrical system, circuit, or device) having, generating, or using two or more alternating voltages of the same frequency, the phases of which are cyclically displaced by fractions of a period See also single-phase two-phase three-phase

2. having more than one phase

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Etymology

Origin of polyphase

First recorded in 1890–95; poly- + phase

Example Sentences

Matthew Inman: Overall, his most practical achievement would be the polyphase electrical system.

From Slate • Aug. 25, 2012

Cooper Hewitt's favorite discovery was the transformation of polyphase alternating current to direct current through the mercury vapor transformer.

From Time Magazine Archive

They possess many advantages, especially their ability to run at overload, and consequently a locomotive with polyphase motor will run up grade without serious loss of speed.

From The Story of Electricity by Munro, John

"Well, this one has a G. E. polyphase, monitor control, with ..." began the pressman.

From Thirty by O'Brien, Howard Vincent

Both carry conductors in their slots, and these conductors in each case form a polyphase winding.

From The New Gresham Encyclopedia Volume 4, Part 2: Ebert to Estremadura by Various