A direct current is an electric current that always flows in the same direction. The abbreviation DC is also used.
Some kinds of batteries can be recharged by connecting them to a source of directcurrent.
direct current in British English
noun
a continuous electric current that flows in one direction only, without substantial variation in magnitude
Abbreviation: DC. Compare alternating current
direct current in American English
an electric current flowing in one direction
abbrev. DC see also alternating current
direct current in Electrical Engineering
(dɪrɛkt kɜrənt) or DC
noun
(Electrical engineering: Circuits, Electrical power, Computing and control)
A direct current is an electric current that always flows in the same direction from positive to negative poles.
In a large generator, electromagnets are made by circulating direct current through loops of wire wound around stacks of magnetic steel laminations.
In direct current, the electric charges flow always in the same direction, which distinguishes it fromalternating current.
A direct current is an electric current that always flows in the same direction from positive to negativepoles.
current
Related wordsCompare direct current with alternating current, which is a continuous electric current that periodically reverses direction, usuallyusing a sine wave.
Examples of 'direct current' in a sentence
direct current
Some kinds of batteries can be recharged by connecting them to a source of direct current.
Schneider, Hermann & Schneider, Leo The Harper Dictionary of Science in Everyday Language (1988)