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Definition of solenoid
solenoid
/ˈsoʊləˌnɔɪd/
so · le · noid
Plural:solenoids
•Adjective:solenoidal
solenoid Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
9
Tier
3
Usage
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Wordle Guess
• noun
1
A transducer or electromechanical device, such as a switch or valve, operated by a magnetic coil that converts electrical energy into linear motion.
Example
"The mechanic diagnosed the engine failure as a worn starter solenoid that was failing to engage the motor."
2
A cylindrical coil of wire that acts as a magnet when carrying an electric current, typically used to generate a controlled magnetic field.
Example
"In physics class, we demonstrated electromagnetism by running a current through a copper solenoid and observing the magnetic field lines."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for solenoid• Rhymes for solenoid
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Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in 1823 by the French physicist André-Marie Ampère as 'solénoïde', derived from the Greek 'sōlēnoeidēs' (pipe-shaped), combining 'sōlēn' (pipe, channel) and 'eidos' (form, shape).
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Solenoid. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/solenoid