< Back
variable resistor
Definition
A variable resistor is a resistor whose resistance can be changed. It is used to control the amount of current flowing through a circuit.
Variable resistors are often used in dimmers and volume controls. They can also be used to control the speed of a motor or the brightness of a light bulb.
How can the word be used?
The variable resistor was used to control the brightness of the LED.
Different forms of the word
Noun: an electrical resistor whose resistance can be changed.
Adjective: of or relating to a variable resistor.
Etymology
The word "variable resistor" comes from the combination of the words "variable" and "resistor".
The word "variable" comes from the Latin word "variabilis", which means "changeable".
The word "resistor" comes from the Latin word "resistere", which means "to withstand".
The first recorded use of the word "variable resistor" in English was in the 19th century.
Question
When might you use a variable resistor?