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thermostat

THUR-muh-stat /ˈθɜːrməstæt/

nounB2SATACTTOEFLIELTS

neutraltechnical

An automatic device for regulating temperature, or for activating a device when the temperature reaches a certain point.

Refers specifically to the control unit or interface that monitors and adjusts temperature, rather than the heating or cooling source itself.

The story behind the word. The word thermostat was coined in the 19th century by combining the Greek words for heat and standing still. It beautifully describes a device whose sole job is to make the temperature 'stand still' at a preferred, comfortable level.

Word relationships

temperature controller: A more generic or industrial term, whereas thermostat is the standard consumer word.

Commonly confused with

thermometer: A thermometer only measures and displays temperature; a thermostat actively controls it.

Word family

thermostatic (adjective): Controlled or regulated by a thermostat.
thermostatically (adverb): In a manner controlled by a thermostat.

Collocations

programmable thermostat
adjust the thermostat
smart thermostat
dial the thermostat

Example sentences

"The thermostat on the wall was a simple dial, but it held absolute power over the comfort of the entire house." A classic science fiction reference to automated systems.
"By installing a smart thermostat, the family was able to program temperature schedules that reduced their monthly energy bills by fifteen percent." A real-world discussion of smart home technology.

Memory hook

Think of a 'thermos' that keeps your soup hot, combined with 'static' (staying the same). A thermostat keeps your room's heat static. Thermos + Static = Keeps heat staying still.

When not to use

Do not confuse with a thermometer, which only measures temperature but cannot change or regulate it.

Fun facts

The first modern electric thermostat was invented in 1883 by Warren S. Johnson, a college professor who was tired of his classroom being too cold.