What does resistor mean?
A resistor is an electrical component used in electronic circuits to limit and control the flow of electric current. It is commonly made from a thin wire or a ceramic or carbon-based material, and its resistance causes a predictable drop in voltage as current passes through it. Resistors may be fixed or variable and are used in countless applications, from dimming lights and dividing voltage to protecting components from excessive current. The term can also refer to a person who opposes a proposal, action, or authority, although this meaning is much less common in everyday use. The word derives from the same Latin root as 'resist' and 'resistance,' reflecting the component's fundamental function: it opposes the movement of current.
nounAn electrical component that opposes the flow of electric current, producing a voltage drop in proportion to the current passing through it. In a less technical sense, a resistor is a person who resists or opposes something.
- An electrical component that provides resistance to the flow of electric current in a circuit.
- A person who resists or opposes an action, decision, or authority.
"The technician replaced the damaged resistor on the circuit board."
"A small resistor limits the current flowing through the LED."
"She was known as a resistor whenever the committee proposed a new plan."
The plural form is standard when referring to multiple electrical components or people who resist.
"The diagram shows four resistors connected in series."
Without resistors, many electronic circuits would either burn out or fail to control their currents.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does resistor come from?
The word resistor was formed in the 17th century from the Latin stem resist-, meaning 'to resist or stand back.' The underlying verb resist comes from Latin resistere, formed from re- 'back' and stare 'to stand.' Related English words include resist, resistance, and resistant, all sharing this origin.
How resistor is actually used
In electronics, 'resistor' is a standard technical term. Outside technical contexts, the word is relatively uncommon and is sometimes used more narrowly for someone who resists change or authority.
Easily confused with resistor
A resistor is the physical component in a circuit, whereas resistance is the opposition to the flow of electric current and is also measured as a property.