semiconductor
A semiconductor is a material that allows electricity to flow through it better than an insulator but not as well as a pure conductor. It is a vital component used in making computer chips and electronic devices.
Examples
3 of 5Your smartphone works because it has many tiny semiconductors inside.
Your mobile phone functions because it contains many very small semiconductors.
The government is funding new research into semiconductor materials.
The government is giving money for new studies on semiconductor materials.
I heard that cars are expensive now because of the semiconductor shortage.
I heard car prices are high because there are not enough semiconductors.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'semi' like a semi-circle (half a circle). A semiconductor is 'half' a conductor—it only works when you want it to.
Quick Quiz
The ______ shortage caused a delay in the production of new laptops.
Correct!
The correct answer is: semiconductor
Examples
Your smartphone works because it has many tiny semiconductors inside.
everydayYour mobile phone functions because it contains many very small semiconductors.
The government is funding new research into semiconductor materials.
formalThe government is giving money for new studies on semiconductor materials.
I heard that cars are expensive now because of the semiconductor shortage.
informalI heard car prices are high because there are not enough semiconductors.
Silicon is the most common element used as a semiconductor in modern technology.
academicSilicon is the most used material for semiconductors in today's technology.
Our company supplies raw materials to the global semiconductor industry.
businessOur business sells basic materials to the worldwide semiconductor market.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
semiconductor fabrication
the making of semiconductor circuits
wide-bandgap semiconductor
a specific type of powerful semiconductor
semiconductor wafer
a thin slice of material used to make chips
Often Confused With
A conductor lets electricity flow easily, while a semiconductor only lets it flow under certain conditions.
A superconductor allows electricity to flow with zero resistance at very cold temperatures.
Usage Notes
Use this word when talking about the technology inside computers, phones, or the electronics industry. It is often used as a noun adjunct (e.g., 'semiconductor factory').
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse it with 'conductor'. Remember that 'semi-' means 'half', so it is only half-way good at conducting electricity.
Memory Tip
Think of 'semi' like a semi-circle (half a circle). A semiconductor is 'half' a conductor—it only works when you want it to.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'semi' (half) and 'conductor' (one who leads or brings together).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
Semiconductors are currently at the center of global trade discussions because they are essential for all modern digital life.
Quick Quiz
The ______ shortage caused a delay in the production of new laptops.
Correct!
The correct answer is: semiconductor
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