[a. F. solénoïde, f. Gr. σωλήν: see SOLEN sb.2]
1. Electr. An electro-dynamical spiral, formed of a wire with the ends returned parallel to the axis; a series of elementary circuits arranged on this principle.
1825. trans. Ampère, in Philos. Mag., LXVI. 370. The rotatory momentum produced by the action of an electro-dynamic solenoid on a conductor.
1832. Handbk. Nat. Philos., Electro-Magnet., xii. § 270 (L.U.K.), 83/2. Collecting together a great number of similar helices, in parallel directions, and uniting them in one mass. Such an arrangement is called by Ampère an Electro-dynamic Solenoid.
1881. Nature, XXV. 15 Dec., 167/2. The main current is made to pass through a pair of concentric solenoids, and in the annular space between these is hung a solenoid.
1897. Curry, Theory Electr. & Magnetism, 254. A number of elementary circuits placed at equal distances apart along any line with their planes at right angles to that line is called a solenoid.
2. Med. A kind of cage for containing a patient during medical treatment.
1902. Brit. Med. Jrnl., No. 2092 Epit. Med. Lit. 19/2. The subject was seated in a large solenoid or cage, and expired through a gasometer. Ibid. (1903), No. 2203. 654/1. The clinical treatment of diphtheria and tetanus within the solenoid.
