actuator

noun

ac·​tu·​a·​tor ˈak-chə-ˌwā-tər How to pronounce actuator (audio)
-shə-
: one that actuates
specifically : a mechanical device for moving or controlling something

Examples of actuator in a Sentence

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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.
Aerodynamics must be evaluated in real-time, while control systems must handle both slow joint actuators and fast jet turbines. Paul Ridden june 24, New Atlas, 24 June 2025 Every 40 seconds, as the mirrors are repositioned for their next long exposure, the actuators perform a new calculus to make a reflective surface that’s seemingly already perfect even more so. Michael Jones McKean, The Atlantic, 23 June 2025 But particularly important are permanent rare earth magnets, which account for a quarter of total rare earths consumption and are a vital component in actuators, or devices that turn a control signal into mechanical motion. Charlie Campbell, Time, 17 June 2025 Higher capacity is likely to drive the need for dual actuators in these big drives to improve the performance, by about 2 times, to enable lower HDD rebuild times, among other advantages. Thomas Coughlin, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for actuator

Word History

Etymology

actuate + -or entry 1

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of actuator was in 1652

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Cite this Entry

“Actuator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/actuator. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.

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