microelectronics
Meaning
The design, manufacture, and use of microchips and very small electronic circuits.
Structure
Usage
Advances in microelectronics have made modern smartphones possible.
He specialized in microelectronics during his engineering degree.
The company is a leader in the field of microelectronics.
Etymology
The term 'microelectronics' is a modern compound, forged in the mid-20th century from two established scientific words. The first element, 'micro-', is borrowed from Greek, where mikros meant 'small'. The second element, 'electronics', has a more ancient lineage; its core, 'electron', originates from the Greek word for amber (ēlektron), a substance known to the ancients for its static electric properties when rubbed. The suffix '-ics' transforms it into a field of study. Thus, the word's literal construction—'the science of very small electrical systems'—perfectly captures its modern meaning: the specialized branch of electronics dealing with miniature components and integrated circuits.
Analysis
- micro: From Greek mikros (small). A combining form used in English to denote something extremely small. - electronics: From the root electron (from Greek ēlektron, meaning amber, associated with electric charge) + the suffix -ics (denoting a branch of knowledge or practice). The word 'electronics' refers to the science and technology concerned with the behavior and control of electrons.