thermoelectric

[ thur-moh-i-lek-trik ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or involving the direct relationship between heat and electricity.

thermoelectric

/ ˌθɜːməʊɪˈlɛktrɪk; ˌθɜːməʊɪˈlɛktrɪkəl /

adjective

1. of, relating to, used in, or operated by the generation of an electromotive force by the Seebeck effect or the Thomson effect

   a thermoelectric thermometer

2. of, relating to, used in, or operated by the production or absorption of heat by the Peltier effect

   a thermoelectric cooler

thermoelectric

/ thûr′mō-ĭ-lĕk′trĭk /

1. Relating to electric potential or power produced by heat, or to heat produced by electric energy. The thermoelectric energy of a nuclear power plant is produced by the heat generated from nuclear fission. The thermoelectric properties of materials such as selenium and semiconductors are exploited in devices such as thermistors and thermocouples used in temperature gauges.
2. See also Seebeck effect

Derived Forms

• ˌthermoeˈlectrically, adverb

Other Words From

• thermo·e·lectri·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of thermoelectric¹

First recorded in 1815–25; thermo- + electric

Example Sentences

Compared with compressor wine coolers, thermoelectric models are quieter and more environmentally friendly.

From Popular-Science

At 20 inches by 18 inches by 29 inches, this thermoelectric wine cooler features seven removable racks, which can each support up to 137 pounds.

From Popular-Science

By drawing in and dispersing warm air, a thermoelectric style ensures your wine stays at the perfect temperature and features slates and shelves specifically made to fit bottles.

From Popular-Science

In the ice is a thermoelectric junction, the wires leading to which are in communication with a reflecting galvanometer.

From Project Gutenberg

Such combinations are called thermoelectric piles, or simply thermopiles.

From Project Gutenberg

Thomson had, however, previous to the publication of this paper, applied thermodynamic theory to thermoelectric phenomena.

From Project Gutenberg

The refraction of invisible heat was ascertained in consequence of the invention of the thermoelectric pile.

From Project Gutenberg

Low-calorie lignite remains the major fuel base for thermoelectric power stations.

From Project Gutenberg