continuity
kon-tih-NEW-ih-tee
/ˌkɒntɪˈnjuːəti/
An unbroken, continuous electrical path along a wire or circuit.
In testing, 'checking continuity' means testing whether current can travel from start to end without a break.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'continuus' (uninterrupted), formed from 'continere' (to hold together). In trade work, it describes a line that holds together continuously from origin to load.
Word relationships
- connectedness: Connectedness is general; continuity specifically implies an unbroken path for flow.
- unbroken path: Unbroken path is descriptive, whereas continuity is the standard technical property name.
- discontinuity: Discontinuity means an interruption or break in an otherwise continuous circuit path.
- open circuit: An open circuit lacks continuity because the physical path is broken.
Commonly confused with
- resistance: Continuity checks if a path exists (zero or low resistance); resistance measures friction to flow.
Word family
- continuous (adjective): Unbroken and uninterrupted in time or path.
- continue (verb): To carry on or remain uninterrupted.
Collocations
- continuity test
- check continuity
- ground continuity
- maintain continuity
Example sentences
- "The technician set her meter to emit a beep to confirm electrical continuity across the ground wire." Diagnostic Testing
- "If continuity is lost in a ground circuit, exposed metal parts can become dangerously energized." Safety Compliance
Memory hook
CONTINUE-ity means electricity can CONTINUE moving without hitting a gap. Unbroken connection along a line.
When not to use
Do not confuse with general uninterrupted narrative flow in film editing, though derived from the same concept.
Fun facts
- Multimeters make a high-pitched beep during continuity tests so workers do not have to look at the screen.
Related words
Explore more words
unbroken, seamless, coherent, successive, Connectivity, duration
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