photocell

noun

pho·​to·​cell ˈfō-tə-ˌsel How to pronounce photocell (audio)

Examples of photocell 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.
The photocells converted that light to an electric current and transported it via telegraph lines to flip a switch that illuminated Chicago. Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 Sep. 2024 To power the fair’s lights, four observatories around the United States focused the star’s light onto photocells, a new technology at the time. Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 Sep. 2024 The author did not intend to furnish the world with plate metal dummies stuffed with cogwheels, photocells, and other mechanical gizmos. IEEE Spectrum, 16 Jan. 2024 If none of the photocells are covered, SADbot draws according to the programmed algorithm -- in the current case, small movements in random directions. IEEE Spectrum, 25 June 2010 In short: The missile would adjust course midflight to keep the target’s heat signature reflected onto a sensitive photocell, making the missile literally seek heat. Alex Hollings, Popular Mechanics, 21 Mar. 2021 Then a buddy at work, a master electrician, devised a photocell to power the lights and reduce battery hassle. Zaz Hollander, Anchorage Daily News, 28 Nov. 2019 The new light fixtures have a dusk-to-dawn photocell and 100-watt LED light bulbs. Benny L. Kass, chicagotribune.com, 14 Feb. 2018 To reverse engineer the wave, Adafruit measured the brightness of a Mac LED using an oscilloscope, a photocell, some extra circuitry and — of course — duct tape. Charlie Sorrel, WIRED, 16 June 2011

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of photocell was in 1891

Dictionary Entries Near photocell

Cite this Entry

“Photocell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/photocell. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

photocell

noun
pho·​to·​cell ˈfōt-ə-ˌsel How to pronounce photocell (audio)
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