semiconductors
nounUK /ˌsemikənˈdʌktəz/
US /ˌsemikənˈdʌktərz/
Special materials that let electricity flow through them only sometimes, so they are used to make computer chips.
The tiny chips inside your phone are made from semiconductors.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. Substances whose ability to conduct electricity is between that of a conductor and an insulator.
Scientists study how semiconductors behave at different temperatures.
3. The industry or companies that make electronic chips and devices.
She got a job working in semiconductors after college.
4. Devices or components built from such materials.
The factory produces semiconductors for laptops and cars.