Definition

A unit of power in the International System of Units, equal to one joule per second, used to measure the rate of energy transfer.

Example

The light bulb uses 60 watts of power.

Conversation

Do you know how many watts are used by that light bulb?

I think it's around 60 watts, but I'm not sure.

That's interesting; I always thought it would be higher.

Yeah, some LED bulbs can use even less energy while producing the same light.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Watt → The word 'watt' is named after James Watt, a Scottish inventor and mechanical engineer who made significant improvements to the steam engine in the late 18th century. The term was adopted in the late 19th century as a unit of power in the International System of Units (SI).

Memory Tip

Think of James Watt, the inventor, to remember that 'watt' refers to a unit of power named after him.

Visually Confused Words