circuit
SER-kit
/ˈsɜːrkɪt/
A complete, closed path through which electric current can flow and perform work.
Refers to both the physical path of conductors and the functional system made up of a power source, wires, and load.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'circuitus', meaning 'a going around'. Early scientists picked this word because electricity will only travel if it can complete a full journey back to its starting source.
Word relationships
- loop: A loop is any circular geometric path, whereas a circuit implies an energized closed system.
- network: A network is an interconnected complex of lines, while a circuit requires a closed loop to function.
- open loop: An open loop lacks a continuous path, preventing electrical flow.
Commonly confused with
- conduit: A conduit is a protective pipe; a circuit is the full electrical path inside it.
Word family
- circuitry (noun): The detailed arrangement of components in an electrical system.
- circutal (adjective): Relating to or having the nature of a circuit.
Collocations
- short circuit
- closed circuit
- circuit breaker
- branch circuit
Idioms & expressions
- short-circuit the process (shortcut or disrupt a process)
Example sentences
- "The electrician discovered that a loose neutral wire had broken the ground-fault circuit in the kitchen." Residential Wiring
- "A simple electric circuit consists of a source of electrical energy, conductors, and a load." Technical Literature (U.S. Navy Electricity and Electronics Training Series)
Memory hook
Think of a CIRCLE that CURRENTS walk around; if the circle breaks, current stops. A full circular journey for electric current.
When not to use
Do not confuse with a physical race track or political speech tour when speaking in an electrical engineering context.
Fun facts
- Ben Franklin was one of the first people to use the word circuit in reference to electricity in 1747.
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.