pyroelectric
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌpaɪroʊɪˈlɛktrɪk/
KK: /paɪroʊɪˈlɛktrɪk/
adjective
Definition
Describing a material that generates an electric charge in response to a change in temperature.
Example
The pyroelectric sensor detects changes in heat and converts them into electrical signals.
Conversation
Did you read about the new pyroelectric materials being developed?
Yeah, they could really change how we use energy!
I find it fascinating how they generate electricity from heat.
Totally, it's like turning waste heat into a useful resource!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
thermoelectric
electrical
heat-sensitive
Antonyms
nonpyroelectric
inert
cold
noun
Definition
A material that generates an electric charge in response to a change in temperature.
Example
The scientist studied the properties of a pyroelectric material for use in sensors.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of a pyroelectric material?
No, I haven't. What is it?
It's something that generates electricity when heated or cooled.
Root Explanation
Pyroelectric → It is formed from "pyro-" (from Greek "pur" meaning fire) and "electric" (from Greek "ēlektron" meaning amber, which was known to produce static electricity when rubbed). The word describes the generation of electric charge in response to changes in temperature, akin to the effects of fire.
Memory Tip
Think of 'fire' ('pyro-') creating an 'electric' charge — that's how pyroelectric materials generate electricity from heat.
Visually Confused Words
proelectric
proelectrical
hydroelectric
myoelectric
spectroelectric
triboelectric
pyrectic
piezoelectric