The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

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.
      [Webster 1913 Suppl.]