Current
'kʌrənt
Definitions
4 meaningsA flow of water or air in a particular direction.
'kʌrənt
A body of water or air moving in a particular direction.
The ship was carried away by the strong ocean current.
💡 Simply: Imagine water in a river. The 'current' is how the water is moving and what's pulling it along. Like when you're swimming in a pool and the water pushes you – that's a water current!
👶 For kids: A current is like a river in the sea or the air – it moves things around!
More Examples
The warm Gulf Stream current influences the climate of the region.
How It's Used
"The ship was caught in a strong ocean current."
"The wind current brought cool air from the north."
Belonging to the present time; now.
'kʌrənt
The present time or the latest information.
The current president is making new decisions.
💡 Simply: Like what's happening *right now*! What's the *current* weather outside? What are the *current* events people are talking about?
👶 For kids: What's happening RIGHT NOW is called 'current'!
More Examples
What is the current exchange rate?
I need to stay informed on current affairs.
How It's Used
"Keep up with the current news."
"The current market trends show a rise in demand."
A flow of electrical charge.
'kʌrənt
The house has a strong electrical current.
💡 Simply: It's like the electricity flowing in a wire that powers your lights and your phone! The 'current' is the flow of these tiny energy particles!
👶 For kids: Like a tiny flow of energy that makes lights and toys work!
More Examples
The appliance is rated for 120-volt current.
The amount of current flowing through the wire is dangerous.
How It's Used
"The current was measured in amperes."
"The electrical current powered the lights."
Happening or existing now; belonging to the present time.
'kʌrənt
Belonging to the present time.
What is the current time?
💡 Simply: The things that are *happening* right now! Like the *current* time is 2:00 pm. The *current* issue on the news is…
👶 For kids: Happening right now, like today!
More Examples
The current events are very important.
We are facing a current challenge.
How It's Used
"The current situation demands immediate attention."
"The company's current financial status is positive."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
in current
In the present time or state.
"The article is now in current production, so it will be published soon."
current affairs
Events of political or social importance happening now.
"She is very well-informed about current affairs."
From Middle English, from Old French *curant*, present participle of *curre* (to run), from Latin *currere*.
Used since the late 14th century to describe flowing water, and later extended to other meanings related to time and events.
Memory tip
Think of a river's current flowing along a path.
Word Origin
"to run, flow"