LED
UK[ˌel iː ˈdiː]US[ˌel iː ˈdiː]
n
A semiconductor device that emits light when an electric current passes through it.
n
A light, lamp, or display that uses such a device.
Etymology
The term LED is a modern technological initialism, originating in the mid-20th century. It is formed from the descriptive phrase "Light-Emitting Diode," which precisely defines its function: a 'diode' (a two-terminal electronic component) that 'emits light'. The word 'diode' itself comes from Greek 'di-' meaning "two" and 'hodos' meaning "way" or "path," referring to its two electrodes. Thus, the etymology of LED is a concise, technical encapsulation of its physical operation, moving from a descriptive phrase to a standardized acronym.
Analysis
LED is an initialism, not a compound word formed from morphemes. It stands for "Light-Emitting Diode". Each letter represents a full word: L (Light), E (Emitting), D (Diode).
Examples
The clock display uses bright red LEDs.
LED technology has made household lighting much more energy-efficient.
She replaced the old bulb with an LED.