resistor
UK[rɪˈzɪstə]US[rɪˈzɪstər]
n
a device used in an electrical circuit to control the flow of current by providing resistance.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
sist
or
re
again/back
sist
stand
or
agent/thing
Etymology
The word "resistor" is a modern scientific term built from classical Latin components. The core verb resistere, meaning "to make a stand against, to oppose," is itself composed of re- ("against") and sistere ("to stand"). This verb entered English as "resist." The agent suffix -or was then appended to create a noun for the specific device that performs the function of resisting. Thus, the literal meaning "a thing that stands against" perfectly captures the device's function of opposing or impeding the flow of electric current.
Analysis
Structure: re (again/back) + sist (stand) + or (agent/thing)
re: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "again" or "back".
sist: From Latin sistere, meaning "to stand, take a stand".
or: Latin agent suffix, indicating a person or thing that performs an action.
Examples
A 10-ohm resistor was used to limit the current in the circuit.
The color bands on the resistor indicate its value and tolerance.
He replaced the burnt-out resistor to repair the amplifier.