thermostat: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral to Technical
Quick answer
What does “thermostat” mean?
A device that automatically regulates temperature by switching a heating or cooling system on and off.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device that automatically regulates temperature by switching a heating or cooling system on and off.
Something that regulates or stabilises a system, process, or condition, or a person who seeks to maintain a comfortable emotional or physical state.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The word is identical in form and application.
Connotations
Identical. Primarily associated with home heating systems (radiators, boilers), air conditioning, ovens, and scientific equipment.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties due to the universal nature of the device.
Grammar
How to Use “thermostat” in a Sentence
turn up/down [the thermostat]set [the thermostat] to [temperature]install [a thermostat]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “thermostat” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We need to thermostatise the greenhouse for the orchids.
- The system is thermostatically controlled.
American English
- The new software allows you to thermostatize the entire building remotely.
- It features a thermostatically operated valve.
adverb
British English
- The shower runs thermostatically, so it's very safe.
- The heater operates thermostatically.
American English
- The unit is designed to function thermostatically.
- It regulates the temperature thermostatically.
adjective
British English
- The thermostatic mixer valve ensures safe water temperatures.
- He checked the thermostatic controls.
American English
- Look for a thermostatic radiator valve to save energy.
- The thermostatic element was faulty.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Discussed in contexts of energy efficiency, smart home technology, and facilities management.
Academic
Used in physics, engineering, and environmental science papers discussing control systems and energy conservation.
Everyday
Common in conversations about home comfort, heating bills, and the weather.
Technical
Precise term in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), appliance manuals, and electronics.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “thermostat”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “thermostat”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “thermostat”
- Misspelling as 'thermastat' or 'thermostate'.
- Using it as a verb without the suffix '-ize' (e.g., 'I will thermostat the room' is incorrect; 'I will adjust the thermostat' is correct).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, modern thermostats control both heating and cooling systems (e.g., air conditioners).
In standard use, it is a noun. The verb forms are 'thermostatize' (or 'thermostatise') and 'thermoregulate', but they are technical and less common.
A thermometer only measures temperature. A thermostat measures temperature and then activates a system to change it, maintaining a set point.
Yes, a smart thermostat can be controlled remotely via a smartphone, learns user habits, and may provide energy usage data, unlike a basic manual or programmable model.
A device that automatically regulates temperature by switching a heating or cooling system on and off.
Thermostat is usually neutral to technical in register.
Thermostat: in British English it is pronounced /ˈθɜː.mə.stæt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈθɝː.mə.stæt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[to] turn up the thermostat on something”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of THERMO (heat) + STAT (stand/keep stable). A thermostat keeps the heat standing at a stable level.
Conceptual Metaphor
A thermostat is a COMMAND CENTRE / REGULATOR for temperature.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a thermostat?