transformer

noun

trans·​form·​er tran(t)s-ˈfȯr-mər How to pronounce transformer (audio)
: one that transforms
specifically : a device employing the principle of mutual induction to convert variations of current in a primary circuit into variations of voltage and current in a secondary circuit

Examples of transformer 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.
It's known as the attention paper now that basically defined the modern day transformers that make up the T in ChatGPT. Lauren Goode, WIRED, 5 Dec. 2024 But in 2017, a new kind of AI model called the transformer was introduced, removing previous limitations on how much a model could learn. Peter Ludwig, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024 The trick was exploiting a Google invention called transformers to create astoundingly capable language models. Steven Levy, WIRED, 21 Nov. 2024 So the two different types of transformers belong to two different power worlds: raw electrical power or compute. John Werner, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for transformer 

Word History

First Known Use

1596, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of transformer was in 1596

Dictionary Entries Near transformer

Cite this Entry

“Transformer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transformer. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

transformer

noun
trans·​form·​er tran(t)s-ˈfȯr-mər How to pronounce transformer (audio)
: a device for changing an electric current into one of different voltage
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