flash drive

noun

: a data storage device that uses flash memory

specifically : a small rectangular device that is designed to be plugged directly into a USB port on a computer and is often used for transferring files from one computer to another

called also thumb drive

Examples of flash drive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Be aware that many flash drive storage spaces tend to be on the smaller side. —Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 10 Mar. 2025

The flash drive’s dual interface features both USB 3.2 and Type-C connectors with one on each side safely tucked under a folder metal cover. —New Atlas, 10 Feb. 2025

Also known as thumb drives or memory sticks, flash drives provide storage to back up precious photos, play movies on the big screen, or copy files from one phone or laptop to another. —Simon Hill, WIRED, 28 Dec. 2024

Quickly clear space on your devices or transfer files between them by directly plugging in the flash drive. —Stackcommerce Team (sponsored), PCMAG, 5 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1992, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for flash drive

• alive
• archive
• arrive
• beehive
• connive
• contrive
• deprive
• derive
• revive
• survive
• dive
• five

Kids Definition

flash drive

noun

: a data storage device that uses flash memory

specifically : a small rectangular device that is designed to be plugged into a USB port on a computer and is often used for transferring files from one computer to another

called also jump drive, thumb drive