TechnologyAugust 13, 2026

switchgear

SWICH-geer

Definition

The collective electrical equipment used to switch, protect, and control electrical circuits and systems.

Etymology

The term is a compound formed from 'switch' (from Middle Dutch 'swicken' meaning to bend or sway) and 'gear' (from Old Norse 'gervi' meaning equipment or apparatus). It emerged in the late 19th century to describe the specialized mechanisms used to control electric power flow.

In the news

The article uses the term to highlight the need for investment in modern electrical infrastructure to support and revitalize South African industrial capacity.

Infrastructure Investment Must Rebuild South African Industry: President Ramaphosa

Read the full article ↗

Eurasia Review

Related words

ascribing

To attribute or credit something, such as a specific value, quality, or cause, to a…

Technology

bearishness

A pessimistic outlook or sentiment, specifically regarding the future performance or…

Technology

boilermakers

Skilled workers who manufacture, install, and repair large containers for liquids or…

Technology

cryptographer

A person who designs, implements, or analyzes systems for secure communication and…

Technology

ductile

Able to be deformed or shaped without breaking, especially when referring to metals or…

Technology

logarithm

A mathematical operation that determines the exponent to which a fixed base must be…

Technology

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.