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

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.
But the axles can be offset from the center of the drive gear – there's a sliding actuator that gradually pushes all three axles out and away from the center. New Atlas, 5 Dec. 2024 The point is to make sure that drivers appear alert and ready to take control of the driving task if the suite of electronic sensors and actuators gets overwhelmed or misjudges a situation. IEEE Spectrum, 26 Nov. 2024 Our computational system uses a library of modular components— actuators, mounting brackets, and connectors—to define the space of possible robot designs. Evan Ackerman, IEEE Spectrum, 6 July 2018 What actually happens is that the trailer roof rises straight up via electro-pneumatic actuators at the push of a button. New Atlas, 9 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near actuator

Cite this Entry

“Actuator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/actuator. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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