1. an early electrical device used to generate static electricity by induction
Usage: physics; historical

Examples

• The electrophorus was invented by Alessandro Volta in 1775.
• Students used an electrophorus to demonstrate static electricity in physics class.
• The electrophorus consists of a metal plate and an insulating disk.
• By rubbing the electrophorus, scientists could produce repeated electrical charges.
• The electrophorus was an important precursor to modern electrical generators.