Dynamo
/ˈdaɪnəmoʊ/
Definitions
2 meaningsA generator used to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy.
/ˈdaɪnəmoʊ/
A machine for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy; a generator.
The technician repaired the faulty dynamo to restore power to the building.
💡 Simply: A machine that makes electricity from spinning or moving parts. Imagine a bicycle that lights up a lamp as you pedal – that light is like the electricity from a tiny dynamo!
👶 For kids: A machine that makes electricity.
More Examples
Early automobiles used dynamos to charge the battery and power the lights.
The invention of the dynamo was crucial for the development of electric power systems.
How It's Used
"The old dynamo still provided power to the factory, though it was inefficient."
"The scientist studied the inner workings of the dynamo to understand its energy production."
An energetic and forceful person.
/ˈdaɪnəmoʊ/
An energetic, forceful, and hardworking person.
The coach described the team's star player as a real dynamo on the field.
💡 Simply: Someone who is full of energy and always busy, like a super-charged person! They are always working hard and getting things done.
👶 For kids: A person who has lots and lots of energy!
More Examples
Despite her age, she was a dynamo, always active and involved.
His fundraising efforts were successful because he was such a dynamo.
How It's Used
"She's a dynamo in the office; always full of energy and getting things done."
"The new CEO is a dynamo, driving innovation and growth."
Idioms & expressions
a human dynamo
A person who is very energetic and active.
"She's a human dynamo, always on the go, and working on multiple projects."
From Greek *dynamis* meaning "power, force". Initially referred to a machine for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy, the term's metaphorical usage, referring to an energetic person, developed later.
Initially used to describe electrical generators, the metaphorical use for an energetic person emerged in the early 20th century.
Memory tip
Think of a machine creating a powerful 'dynamic' flow of electricity.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: dynamis