amplifier

noun

am·​pli·​fi·​er ˈam-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce amplifier (audio)
: one that amplifies
specifically : an electronic device (as in a stereo system) for amplifying voltage, current, or power

Examples of amplifier in a Sentence

He plugged his electric guitar into an amplifier.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The researchers used an optical amplifier to compensate during their experiments, but practical applications would benefit from reducing this loss through design optimization. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2026 The directory identifies each group's mission, ideology, organizational role and documented protest activity, distinguishing direct organizers and participants from supporters and amplifiers. — Asra Q. Nomani, FOXNews.com, 23 Oct. 2026 Dual large solid high-polymer capacitors in the power supply architecture provide the amplifier with stable power. — New Atlas, 19 Oct. 2026 Simon rotated a telescope towards the night sky while photodiodes detected light from planets and stars—which was then converted into an electrical signal with an analog amplifier. — Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 16 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for amplifier

Word History

Etymology

amplify + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amplifier was in 1551

Phrases Containing amplifier

Rhymes for amplifier

See All Rhymes for amplifier

Browse Nearby Words

amplification factor
amplifier
amplify
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Cite this Entry

“Amplifier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amplifier. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

amplifier

noun
am·​pli·​fi·​er ˈam-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce amplifier (audio)
: one that amplifies
especially : a device usually using electron tubes or transistors to obtain an increase of voltage, current, or power

Medical Definition

amplifier

noun
am·​pli·​fi·​er ˈam-plə-ˌfī(ə)r How to pronounce amplifier (audio)
: one that amplifies
specifically : an electronic device (as in a computer or sound-reproducing system) for amplifying voltage, current, or power

More from Merriam-Webster on amplifier

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about amplifier

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