Electret

/ɪˈlɛktrɛt/ noun

Definition

A material that holds a permanent electric charge or polarization, similar to how a magnet holds magnetism.

Etymology

A blend of 'electric' and 'magnet' (compare 'magnet' itself). Coined in the 1920s-1930s by scientists studying materials with lasting electrical properties.

Kelly Says

Electrets are used in modern microphones and other electronics—they're the electrical equivalent of magnets, and their name cleverly blends the two concepts together!

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