Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Direct current \Direct current\ (Elec.)
   (a) A current flowing in one direction only; -- distinguished
       from {alternating current}. When steady and not pulsating
       a direct current is often called a {continuous current}.
   (b)

   {A direct induced current}, or momentary current of the same
      direction as the inducing current, produced by stopping or
      removing the latter; also, a similar current produced by
      removal of a magnet.