Leyden jarPronunciation: /ˈlʌɪd(ə)n/Definition of Leyden jar noun an early form of capacitor consisting of a glass jar with layers of metal foil on the outside and inside. Origin: mid 18th century: named after Leyden (see Leiden), where it was invented (1745)Leyden jar in other Oxford dictionaries Definition of Leyden jar in the US English dictionary