disyuntor
/disʝunˈtoɾ/
The Spanish word for breaker is disyuntor.
Meaning: wave (noun)
Which one should you use?
Interruptor general is used to refer to a main electrical switch or breaker. Cortacircuitos and desconector are also used to denote a breaker.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Latin America, the phrase interruptor general is used to refer to a main electrical switch or breaker.
How do you pronounce it?
/disʝunˈtoɾ/
Did you know?
- While disyuntor is the technical term, people in many Spanish-speaking countries colloquially say that the electricity saltó (jumped) when a breaker trips.
- In some regions, the word térmica is used as a shorthand for a circuit breaker because it refers to the thermal mechanism that triggers the break.
- The term disyuntor is a technical term derived from the Latin verb 'disiungere', which means 'to disconnect' or 'to unjoin'.
Examples in context
- Necesitamos instalar un cortacircuitos en el panel eléctrico.We need to install a breaker in the electrical panel.
- El fusible de la cocina se quemó.The kitchen breaker/fuse blew.
- No olvides apagar el interruptor antes de irte.Don't forget to turn off the switch/breaker before leaving.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Lucía are standing on a beach.
- Alejandro¡Mira aquel disyuntor!Look at that breaker!
- LucíaEs muy fuerte, Alejandro.It is very strong, Alejandro.
- Alejandro¿Quieres nadar ahora?Do you want to swim now?
- LucíaNo, esperemos a que calme.No, let's wait for it to calm down.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry disyuntor, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries disyuntor, CC BY-SA 4.0.
