variants or less commonly AC-DC
1
a
: using or operating on either alternating or direct current
Using this circuit, you can control any AC/DC appliance remotely through inexpensive, low-voltage cabling and a standard push switch.T. K. Hareendran
b
: converting between alternating and direct current
The … package includes … an AC/DC adapter that can be used when the player is not running on its two AAA batteries.Will Davis
2
[from the likening of a bisexual person to an electrical appliance which can operate on either alternating or direct current] dated slang : bisexual sense 1a
… preaches inclusiveness regardless of … sexual orientation—including those who are AC/DCThe Weekly Standard

Word History

Etymology

Alternating Current/Direct Current

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of AC/DC was in 1898

Dictionary Entries Near AC/DC

Cite this Entry

“AC/DC.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/AC%2FDC. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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