Definition
A combination electrical test instrument that can measure either voltage (in volts) or current (in amperes), depending on how it is set and connected. It functions as both a voltmeter and an ammeter in a single unit.
Plain English
A meter that can check either electrical pressure (volts) or electrical flow (amps), with a switch or selector to choose which one you want to measure.
Context Anchor
Seen on aircraft instrument panels and in electrical system checks, especially when monitoring the battery, generator, or alternator.
Derivation
The name combines 'volt' (the unit of electrical pressure, named after Italian physicist Alessandro Volta) and 'ammeter' (a meter for measuring amperes, the unit of electrical current). The two words are blended into one instrument name because the device performs both jobs.
Why Pilots Care
Gives immediate indication of charging system health so a pilot can spot battery drain or alternator failure before electrical systems are lost.
Analogy
Like a car dashboard that displays both speed and engine temperature on one dial instead of two separate ones.
Intuition Check
Do not read voltammeter as just a voltmeter. The word points to a combined electrical indication: voltage and current, not voltage alone.
Example Sentence 1
During the runup, the pilot glanced at the voltammeter and confirmed the alternator was charging at the expected rate.
Example Sentence 2
During cruise the voltammeter showed a drop to 12 volts, prompting the pilot to reduce electrical load.