thermostat

[thur-muh-stat]

noun

1. a device, including a relay actuated by thermal conduction or convection, that functions to establish and maintain a desired temperature automatically or signals a change in temperature for manual adjustment.

verb (used with object)

thermostatted, thermostated, thermostatting, thermostating. 

1. to equip or control with a thermostat.

thermostat

/ ˈθɜːməˌstæt /

noun

1. a device that maintains a system at a constant temperature. It often consists of a bimetallic strip that bends as it expands and contracts with temperature, thus breaking and making contact with an electrical power supply

2. a similar device that actuates equipment, such as a sprinkler, when a certain temperature is reached

thermostat

1. A device that automatically controls heating or cooling equipment in such a way as to maintain a temperature at a constant level or within a specified range, generally using a thermometer capable of triggering electrical switches that activate or deactivate the equipment.

thermostat

1. A device that monitors and automatically responds to changes in temperature and activates switches controlling devices such as furnaces or air conditioners.

Other Word Forms

• thermostatic adjective
• thermostatically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of thermostat¹

First recorded in 1825–35; thermo- + -stat

Example Sentences

Should we set our thermostats lower in winter and wear sweaters indoors?

Read more on MarketWatch

“Closing vents or cranking thermostats too quickly to cool or heat your home only uses more energy and creates an imbalance.”

Read more on MarketWatch

Decentralized infrastructure solutions are available now, such as rooftop solar and energy storage, and distributed energy resources including heat pumps and smart thermostats.

Read more on MarketWatch

For most of Earth's history, scientists have viewed the slow breakdown of silicate rocks as the planet's main natural thermostat.

Read more on Science Daily

So will you wait until a particular date to reach for the thermostat?

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• manager