gadget

noun

gad·​get ˈga-jət How to pronounce gadget (audio)
: an often small mechanical or electronic device with a practical use but often thought of as a novelty
gadgetry noun
gadgety adjective

Examples of gadget in a Sentence

The kitchen is equipped with all the latest gadgets. cell phones, pagers, and other gadgets
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The best deals on popular products — like Apple must-haves, best-selling fashion finds, and buzzy tech and home gadgets — are always at risk of selling out. Averi Baudler, People.com, 30 Nov. 2024 The gadgets are especially great, with steep discounts on Roombas and Apple tech galore. Jenifer Calle, Glamour, 29 Nov. 2024 This gadget is essentially a small, handheld magic wand. Tiffany Hopkins, Bon Appétit, 29 Nov. 2024 This tiny gadget features mirocurrent, percussive, and LED technology to whip your skin into shape. Annie Blackman, Allure, 29 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for gadget 

Word History

Etymology

perhaps a sound-symbolic coinage, with final as in fidget entry 1, midget, idjit (nonstandard form of idiot)

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gadget was in 1886

Dictionary Entries Near gadget

Cite this Entry

“Gadget.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gadget. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

gadget

noun
gad·​get ˈgaj-ət How to pronounce gadget (audio)
: an interesting, unfamiliar, or unusual device with a practical use
gadgetry noun

More from Merriam-Webster on gadget

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