Autotransformer
noun ·Rare ·Advanced level
Definitions
- 1 A transformer with a single winding, its output being taken from taps.
"One of the principal features of the ordinary configurations of the transformer [...] is the electrical isolation that exists between the primary and secondary windings. [...] Whenever large transformation ratios are involved, safety demands that ordinary transformers be used. However, in instances where the transformation ratio is close to unity (which minimizes the hazard), a transformer employing a single tapped winding may be used with notable advantages. [...] This arrangement is called the autotransformer."
Example
More examples"One of the principal features of the ordinary configurations of the transformer [...] is the electrical isolation that exists between the primary and secondary windings. [...] Whenever large transformation ratios are involved, safety demands that ordinary transformers be used. However, in instances where the transformation ratio is close to unity (which minimizes the hazard), a transformer employing a single tapped winding may be used with notable advantages. [...] This arrangement is called the autotransformer."
Etymology
From auto- + transformer.
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Data sourced from Wiktionary, WordNet, CMU, and other open linguistic databases. Updated March 2026.