joule Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a unit of electrical energy equal to the work done when a current of one ampere passes through a resistance of one ohm for one second
    watt second; J.
  2. noun English physicist who established the mechanical theory of heat and discovered the first law of thermodynamics (1818-1889)
    James Prescott Joule.

WordNet

Joule noun
Etymology
From the distinguished English physicist, James P. Joule.
Definitions
  1. (Physics.) A unit of work which is equal to 107 units of work in the C. G. S. system of units (ergs), and is practically equivalent to the energy expended in one second by an electric current of one ampere in a resistance of one ohm. One joule is approximately equal to 0.738 foot pounds.

Webster 1913