Photovoltaic
/ˌfoʊ.toʊ.vɒlˈteɪ.ɪk/noun
Relating to the production of electricity from light, especially sunlight.
Did you know?The “voltaic” part honors Alessandro Volta, whose name also gave English the word “volt,” linking modern solar technology to the history of electrical experimentation.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bʰeh₂-
“To shine or give light; the reconstructed root behind several Greek light-related forms.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
phôs (φῶς), phōt- (φωτ-)
“Light; the combining form used in compounds concerning light.”
19th Century
Italian
volta
“The surname of Alessandro Volta, adopted in scientific terminology to honor his work on electricity.”
19th Century
English
voltaic
“Relating to electricity produced by chemical or electrical action, formed from Volta’s name.”
Late 19th Century
English
photovoltaic
“Relating to the conversion of light directly into electricity; formed from photo- and voltaic.”
Modern English
English
photovoltaic
“Producing electrical power from light, especially through solar cells.”
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