Agency Dictionary

Rechargeable

adjectivePronunciation: /riːˈtʃɑːr.dʒə.bəl/

What does “Rechargeable” mean?

Capable of having its electrical chemical energy replenished repeatedly by passing an electric current through the cell in the reverse direction of its normal discharge cycle.

Etymology

From recharge plus -able. Recharge derives from Old French rechargier (from re- plus chargier, to load or charge). The suffix -able (from Latin -ābilis) means capable of being subjected to the named action.

Usage note

A rechargeable battery can be restored to its original charge by passing an electric current through it. In everyday speech the word typically describes batteries and devices, not other stored energies.

Word family

charge
recharge
charger
overcharge

Usage examples

The cobalt found in the dirt here provides maximum stability and energy density to rechargeable batteries, allowing them to hold more charge and operate safely for longer periods.

Concept

Lithium-Ion BatteryA lithium-ion battery is a type of rechargeable energy storage cell in which lithium ions move from the negative electrode through an electrolyte to the positive…

Source editions

Where this entry comes from in the Agency editorial.

Issue.24 - Boiling Red CobaltMay 17, 2024Read the edition

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