electrical
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪlˈɛktrɪkəl/
US
- /ɪˈlɛktrɪkəl/
Description
- Related to electricity
- using electric power
- linked to electric charge
The word "electrical" describes things that are connected to electricity. It can refer to power, wiring, signals, machines, or systems that use or carry electric energy. You might hear about electrical equipment, an electrical outlet, electrical wiring, or an electrical fault in a building. The word also appears in science and medicine, as in electrical signals in the brain or electrical activity in the heart. Most of the time, it is used in technical or practical situations, but it can also be used in a more vivid way to describe a feeling of strong energy or tension, such as an electrical atmosphere at a concert or during an important moment.
"Electrical" refers to anything related to electricity, electric charge, or the use of electric power. It is a broad word that covers both the science behind electricity and the many ways people use it in everyday life. You see it in discussions of wiring, lighting, power systems, safety, engineering, medicine, and technology.
In daily use, "electrical" often describes parts, systems, or problems connected with electricity. We talk about electrical wiring, electrical equipment, electrical repairs, and electrical safety. An electrical engineer works with systems and devices that use electricity. In science and health, the word appears in phrases like electrical current, electrical resistance, electrical activity, and electrical impulses. These examples show that the word is useful for both physical objects and invisible processes.
There is some overlap between "electric" and "electrical," and in some contexts both can sound natural. Still, "electrical" is especially common when talking about systems, parts, services, faults, or technical matters, while "electric" is often used for things that run on electricity or produce it, such as an electric car or an electric heater. Because of this, "electrical" often sounds slightly more formal or technical.
Beyond technical contexts, "electrical" can also be used in a figurative way. An electrical atmosphere is one that feels full of energy, tension, or excitement, as if the air itself were charged. So whether you are describing a broken outlet, the signals in the body, or the mood in a crowded room, "electrical" points to something connected with electricity or with a strong sense of charged energy.
Examples
- 1
Home safety
Check that all electrical appliances are switched off before you go to bed.
- 2
House wiring
We had to replace the old electrical wiring in the house.
- 3
Fire cause
The fire started because of an electrical fault behind the wall.
Phrase
electrical fault
a problem in an electrical system
- 4
Job title
She works as an electrical engineer for a wind energy company.
- 5
Power repair
The electrician tested every electrical connection before turning the power back on.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- electricaladjective