: a switch that automatically interrupts the current of an overloaded electric circuit
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the WebIf not removable, unplug your garbage disposal or cut off the power to it from the circuit breaker before cleaning the underside with a sponge or old toothbrush. Aaron Hutcherson, Washington Post, 19 Aug. 2022 Aldrin is also selling the broken circuit breaker switch that, if not for his ingenuity and quick thinking, would’ve stranded him, Armstrong and Collins on the moon. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 25 July 2022 Both the circuit breaker switch and pen will come with NFTs containing information about the item and its authenticity. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 22 July 2022 Also on sale is the Eagle lunar module's circuit breaker switch, which infamously broke during the mission, threatening to leave Armstrong and Aldrin stranded on the moon's surface.CNN, 19 July 2022 Their shortage means complaints of sparks or circuit breaker trips in a hospital may go unheeded for a long time. Tabassum Barnagarwala, Quartz, 13 Apr. 2022 The power switch doubles as a circuit breaker reset, and when turned on, two LEDs indicate protection status and if the circuit is grounded properly. Bradley Ford, Popular Mechanics, 28 June 2022 An officer reset a circuit breaker in her home that solved the issue. Joan Rusek, cleveland, 21 May 2022 Remove leaves, twigs or anything stuck in the grille slats with a shop vacuum, utility vacuum or brush. Turn off the circuit breaker and unplug the unit before undertaking any wet cleaning steps. Carolyn Forté, Good Housekeeping, 18 May 2022 See More
Word History
First Known Use
1872, in the meaning defined above
Kids Definition
circuit breaker
noun
: a switch that automatically stops the flow of electric current if a circuit becomes overloaded