short circuit

¹

noun

Electricity.

1. Also called short. an abnormal, usually unintentional condition of relatively low resistance between two points of different potential in a circuit, usually resulting in a flow of excess current.

short-circuit

²

[shawrt-sur-kit]

verb (used with object)

1. Electricity.

   1. to make (an appliance, switch, etc.) inoperable by establishing a short circuit in.

   2. to carry (a current) as a short circuit.

2. to bypass, impede, hinder, or frustrate.

   Bad weather short-circuited my vacation plans.

verb (used without object)

1. Electricity.,  to form a short circuit or become inoperable due to a short circuit.

short circuit

noun

1. a faulty or accidental connection between two points of different potential in an electric circuit, bypassing the load and establishing a path of low resistance through which an excessive current can flow. It can cause damage to the components if the circuit is not protected by a fuse

verb

1. to develop or cause to develop a short circuit

2. (tr) to bypass (a procedure, regulation, etc)

3. (tr) to hinder or frustrate (plans, etc)

short circuit

1. An electrical path in a circuit that causes most of the current to flow around or away from some other path in the circuit. Accidental short circuits, especially between the high and low voltages of a power supply, can cause very strong current to flow, possibly damaging or overheating the circuit.

short circuit

1. An electrical circuit in which a path of very low resistance has been opened, usually accidentally. When the resistance drops, the electric current (see also current) in the circuit becomes very high and can cause damage to the circuit and start fires.

Word History and Origins

Origin of short circuit¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Origin of short circuit²

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

The fire may have been caused by a short circuit, he said.

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“Now they want to short circuit the whole process,” McGoldrick added.

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I could still hear the words, feel the numbness settle in, like a short circuit in my brain.

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These batteries can produce extreme heat and fire if damage or manufacturing faults cause them to short circuit.

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Local officials believe an electrical short circuit or another fault in a machine used to increase the level of oxygen in the ward sparked the fire.

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