Definition

A device that produces microwave radiation by controlling the flow of electrons using magnetic and electric fields, commonly used in radar and microwave ovens.

Example

The chef used a microwave oven that contained a magnetron to heat the food quickly.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a magnetron?

Yeah, it's that part in microwaves, right?

Exactly! It generates the microwaves that heat our food.

That's pretty cool — I didn't know it was called a magnetron!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Magnetron is formed from "magnet" (from Greek "magnetis lithos", meaning magnet stone) and "-ron" (a suffix used in the names of devices or instruments). The word "magnetron" refers to a device that uses magnetic fields to generate microwave radiation, hence its connection to magnets.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'magnet' as a stone that attracts, and the '-ron' as a device — a magnetron is a device that uses magnetic properties.

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