Definition

A solid material that can hold an electric charge and maintains its electric polarization over time.

Example

The microphone used in the recording studio was equipped with an electret to enhance sound quality.

Conversation

I just learned about something called an electret in my physics class.

Oh really? What exactly is that?

It's a type of dielectric that holds a permanent polarization.

That sounds interesting! I never knew dielectrics could do that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Electret is formed from "electro-" (from Greek "ēlektron", meaning amber, which is associated with electricity) and "-et" (a suffix used to form nouns). The word refers to a material that has a permanent electric charge, akin to the properties of amber when rubbed.

Memory Tip

Think of 'amber' ('ēlektron') which can generate electricity when rubbed, helping you remember that an electret is a material with a permanent electric charge.

Visually Confused Words