amplifier

noun

am·​pli·​fi·​er ˈam-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce amplifier (audio)
: one that amplifies
specifically : an electronic device (as in a stereo system) for amplifying voltage, current, or power

Examples of amplifier in a Sentence

He plugged his electric guitar into an amplifier.
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.
Not only were the guitar and bass amplified, but the harmonica was played into a microphone or through a small-wattage tube amplifier, producing distortion. — René Ostberg, Encyclopedia Britannica, 29 July 2026 What epidemiologists feel is that the market was an amplifier of something that was already going on. — ABC News, 29 July 2026 Faster battlefield repairs Laser amplifiers are among the most critical components inside high-energy laser weapons. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 23 July 2026 The humor—dry, humane, occasionally absurd—is ever-present … The Vermont setting, spare and bracing, acts as a quiet amplifier of these idiosyncrasies, while Mason remains attuned to the natural world. — Literary Hub, 10 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for amplifier

Word History

Etymology

amplify + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amplifier was in 1551

Phrases Containing amplifier

Rhymes for amplifier

See All Rhymes for amplifier

Browse Nearby Words

amplification factor
amplifier
amplify
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Amplifier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amplifier. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

amplifier

noun
am·​pli·​fi·​er ˈam-plə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce amplifier (audio)
: one that amplifies
especially : a device usually using electron tubes or transistors to obtain an increase of voltage, current, or power

Medical Definition

amplifier

noun
am·​pli·​fi·​er ˈam-plə-ˌfī(ə)r How to pronounce amplifier (audio)
: one that amplifies
specifically : an electronic device (as in a computer or sound-reproducing system) for amplifying voltage, current, or power

More from Merriam-Webster on amplifier

Nglish: Translation of amplifier for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about amplifier

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