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circuit breaker
noun
: a switch that automatically interrupts the current of an overloaded electric circuit
Examples of circuit breaker in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Steen’s concerns came as the utility’s board in the same meeting also approved spending $190 million for three projects related to underground infrastructure, engineering plans and circuit breakers.
—Sara Dinatale, San Antonio Express-News, 2 Oct. 2024
If a circuit breaker has been tripped, contact an electrician to inspect them before turning them on.
—Julia Gomez, USA TODAY, 10 Oct. 2024
Around 40% of the company’s circuit breakers were installed between 1930 and 1960, according to the audit.
—Arpan Lobo, Detroit Free Press, 24 Sep. 2024
Patil said the ship lost power after circuit breakers tripped in a transformer in the engine room because of excessive vibrations in the transformer and its circuitry.
—Bart Jansen, USA TODAY, 18 Sep. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1872, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near circuit breaker
Cite this Entry
“Circuit breaker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/circuit%20breaker. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
circuit breaker
noun
: a switch that automatically stops the flow of electric current in an overloaded circuit
More from Merriam-Webster on circuit breaker
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about circuit breaker
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