timer

noun

tim·​er ˈtī-mər How to pronounce timer (audio)
: one that times: such as
a
: timepiece
especially : a stopwatch for timing races
c
: a device (such as a clock) that indicates by a sound the end of an interval of time or that starts or stops a device at predetermined times

Examples of timer in a Sentence

He was the official timer for the race. She set the timer on the oven for one hour. The timer is set to go off in 15 minutes.
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.
Even better, this candle comes with an automatic timer. Maya Handelsman, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 June 2025 Key features: Rechargeable battery, LED bulbs, rotation possible, realistic imagery, additional disks available, disks compatible with some other projectors, lowest-ever price, near-silent motor, sleeper timer. Alexander Cox, Space.com, 6 June 2025 Once the timer has elapsed, use a clean, microfiber cloth to wipe off the solution. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 5 June 2025 The timer on a rice cooker is great for those who don’t have much time to cook after work. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 2 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for timer

Word History

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of timer was in 1648

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Timer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/timer. Accessed 25 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

timer

noun
tim·​er ˈtī-mər How to pronounce timer (audio)
1
2
: a clocklike device that turns something on or off at a set time or gives a signal at the end of a period of time

More from Merriam-Webster on timer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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