amplifier

/ˌæmpləˈfaɪər/

/ˈæmplɪfaɪə/

Other forms: amplifiers

An amplifier is a device that makes an electronic signal stronger, and it's most often used to increase the volume of musical instruments. If you play electric guitar in a rock band, you use an amplifier.

In scientific terms, an amplifier can increase (or amplify) any type of signal, including magnetic signals and optical signals. When people talk about amplifiers, they usually mean the ones used by musicians and sound engineers. If you plug your electric bass guitar into an amplifier, you can make the sound loud enough that your next door neighbors will be able to hear it. You can call an amplifier an amp for short.

Definitions of amplifier

1. noun

   electronic equipment that increases strength of signals passing through it
   types:

   audio amplifier

   an amplifier that increases the amplitude of reproduced sound

   booster, booster amplifier, booster station, relay link, relay station, relay transmitter

   an amplifier for restoring the strength of a transmitted signal

   maser

   an acronym for microwave amplification by stimulated emission of radiation; an amplifier that works on the same principle as a laser and emits coherent microwave radiation

   gas maser

   a maser in which microwave radiation interacts with gas molecules

   type of:

   electronic equipment, electronics

   equipment that involves the controlled conduction of electrons (especially in a gas or vacuum or semiconductor)