Part of Speech

Adjective

Phonetic Transcription

/ˌθɜːrˈmaɪ.ən.ɪk/

Meaning and Usage

"Thermionic" refers to the phenomenon associated with the emission of electrons from a heated material, particularly metals. It is primarily used in the context of thermionic emission, a process in physics and engineering where heat energy causes electrons to be released from a material’s surface. This term is more commonly found in technical discussions, predominantly in written contexts such as academic papers, textbooks, and engineering literature, rather than in everyday conversation.

Frequency of Use

The word "thermionic" is not commonly used in day-to-day language. It is primarily encountered in specialized scientific and technical contexts.

Example Sentences

1. Thermionic emission occurs when a metal is heated to a high temperature.
   (Електронна емісія відбувається, коли метал нагрівається до високої температури.)

2. The design of the thermionic converter is crucial for improving energy efficiency.
   (Проектування термоїонного перетворювача є вирішальним для підвищення енергоефективності.)

3. Thermionic triodes were an important advancement in early electronics.
   (Термоїонні тріоди були важливим досягненням у ранній електроніці.)

Idiomatic Expressions

While "thermionic" does not have many idiomatic expressions directly associated with it, its related concepts can appear in discussions about technology and physics. Here are some usages that could metaphorically relate or may incorporate the essence of "thermionic":

1. "Catch fire like a thermionic emitter."
   (Зазнав вогню, як термоїонний випромінювач.)

2. Used to describe something that gains popularity or intensity suddenly.

3. "Heat things up in a thermionic manner."
   (Підігрівайте речі термоїонним способом.)

4. This might refer to intensifying discussions or actions with great energy.

5. "Let’s not be thermionically charged today."
   (Не будемо сьогодні зарядженими термоїонно.)

6. An informal way to suggest staying cool or calm instead of overly energetic or heated in discussions.

Etymology

The term "thermionic" comes from the Greek word "thermion," which is derived from "thermos," meaning heat, combined with the suffix "-ionic," referencing ions or charged particles. It was first introduced in scientific literature in the early 20th century as researchers began to explore the properties of electrons and their emissions.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms:
- Electron-emitting
- Thermal emission
- Heated emission

Antonyms:
- Non-emissive
- Cold emission
- Insulating (in the context of thermal relaxation)

This information provides a comprehensive overview of the term "thermionic," highlighting its meaning, usage, and related concepts in language and technology.