The origin of the term `electronics'

A historian of the technology reviews the beginnings and changing meanings of the term ``electronics.'' He points out that it goes back to the adjective ``electronic,'' and even further to the name ``electron,'' which was first proposed in 1891. In its modern context, the origin of the word ``electronics'' has been ascribed to the first appearance of the magazine of that name, in 1930, although there is some contention that it was already in use in Great Britain. In any event, its definition has broadened through the years and the future may see even further changes.