stator: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical / Engineering
Quick answer
What does “stator” mean?
The stationary part of a rotary system, especially the fixed part of an electric motor or generator that surrounds the rotating rotor.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The stationary part of a rotary system, especially the fixed part of an electric motor or generator that surrounds the rotating rotor.
In broader engineering contexts, any stationary component that interacts with a moving part to create force, torque, or electromagnetic induction.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent.
Connotations
Purely technical term with no regional connotations.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both varieties, confined to technical fields.
Grammar
How to Use “stator” in a Sentence
The [NOUN] stator [VERB] the rotor[ADJECTIVE] stator of the [NOUN]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “stator” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The technician inspected the stator for any signs of winding insulation failure.
- A loud hum from the motor can indicate a problem with the stator.
American English
- We need to order a new stator for the AC motor assembly.
- The design features an aluminium stator housing for better heat dissipation.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, only in manufacturing or industrial supply contexts (e.g., 'stator production line').
Academic
Common in engineering textbooks, papers, and lectures on electric machinery.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
The primary domain of use. Essential vocabulary for electrical engineers, motor technicians, and mechanical designers.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “stator”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “stator”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “stator”
- Mispronouncing it as '/ˈstætər/' or '/ˈstɑːtər/'.
- Confusing it with 'rotor'.
- Using it in non-technical contexts where simpler words like 'fixed part' would suffice.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While most common in electric motors and generators, the term can apply to any system with a stationary and rotating part, such as in certain pumps, turbines, or mechanical clutches.
No, 'stator' is exclusively a noun. There is no verb form 'to stator'.
In many DC machines, the armature is the rotating part (rotor). In AC machines, the terms 'stator' and 'rotor' are more common. 'Armature' specifically refers to the power-generating or power-receiving winding, which can be on the stator or rotor depending on the machine type.
Typically, yes, especially in common AC induction motors. However, in some motor designs (e.g., outrunner brushless DC motors), the stator can be the central stationary part with the rotor forming the outer shell that rotates.
The stationary part of a rotary system, especially the fixed part of an electric motor or generator that surrounds the rotating rotor.
Stator is usually technical / engineering in register.
Stator: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsteɪtə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsteɪtər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'STAtor' as being 'STAtionary', while the 'ROtor' ROTates.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE CENTER AND THE PERIPHERY (The stationary stator often surrounds or provides the framework for the action of the rotor.)
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a stator in an electric motor?