joystick

noun

joy·​stick ˈjȯi-ˌstik 

1

: a lever in an airplane that operates the elevators by a fore-and-aft motion and the ailerons by a side-to-side motion

2

: a control for any of various devices (such as a computer) that resembles an airplane's joystick especially in being capable of motion in two or more directions

Examples of joystick in a Sentence

This game works with either a mouse or joystick.

Recent Examples on the Web

The device features an analog joystick for navigation, as well as a potentiometer for tweaking settings and control of functions. —Paul Ridden, New Atlas, 17 Feb. 2025

The chairlift-friendly apparatus can be operated with a joystick or by breathing into and out of a tube, depending on a user’s needs. —Paul Brady, Travel + Leisure, 16 Feb. 2025

The joysticks and controller covers come in light blue and red variations. —Ryan Browne, CNBC, 16 Jan. 2025

Additional peripheral mounts will be released in August, including the $99 Pro Flying surfaces for a joystick and throttle, the $189 Pro Desktop desk surface for a mouse and keyboard, and the $199 Pro Racing surfaces for a steering wheel and pedals. —Will Greenwald, PCMAG, 9 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from English slang joystick penis

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for joystick

• broomstick
• dipstick
• homesick
• lipstick
• nonstick
• pickwick
• picnic
• redbrick
• seasick
• sidekick
• slapstick
• toothpick

Kids Definition

joystick

noun

joy·​stick -ˌstik 

: a control lever for a device (as a computer display or an airplane) that allows motion in two or more directions