oscillator

noun

os·​cil·​la·​tor ˈä-sə-ˌlā-tər How to pronounce oscillator (audio)
1
: one that oscillates
2
: a device for producing alternating current
especially : a radio-frequency or audio-frequency generator

Examples of oscillator in a Sentence

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.
These modes are referred to as a damped harmonic oscillator. — Keith Cooper, Space.com, 15 Mar. 2026 Here, two oscillators are running at close to but not identical frequencies. — IEEE Spectrum, 30 Apr. 2026 Quantum field theorists typically describe fields as a collection of oscillators, each of which has its own zero-point energy. — George Musser, Wired News, 15 Feb. 2026 With barely $500 in capital, the partners created an oscillator to test sound equipment. — Usa Today Network, USA Today, 2 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for oscillator

Word History

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of oscillator was in 1798

Rhymes for oscillator

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Browse Nearby Words

oscillation ripple
oscillator
Oscillatoria
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Oscillator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oscillator. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

oscillator

noun
os·​cil·​la·​tor ˈäs-ə-ˌlāt-ər How to pronounce oscillator (audio)
1
: one that oscillates
2
: a device for producing alternating current
especially : a radio-frequency or audio-frequency generator

Medical Definition

oscillator

noun
os·​cil·​la·​tor ˈäs-ə-ˌlāt-ər How to pronounce oscillator (audio)
: a device or mechanism for producing or controlling oscillations
especially : one (as a radio-frequency generator) for producing an alternating current

More from Merriam-Webster on oscillator

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about oscillator

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