A device that converts heat energy directly into electric energy by using the Seebeck effect; it is composed of at least two dissimilar materials, one junction of which is in contact with a heat source and the other junction of which is in contact with a heat sink. Also known as thermocouple converter; thermoelectric generator; thermoelectric power generator; thermoelement.

An instrument used with external resistors for ac current and voltage measurements over wide ranges, consisting of a conductor heated by an electric current, with one or more hot junctions of a thermocouple attached to it, so that the output emf responds to the temperature rise, and hence the current.