timer

noun

tim·​er ˈtī-mər 

: one that times: such as

a

: timepiece

especially : a stopwatch for timing races

b

: timekeeper

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

Synonyms

• chronometer
• clock
• timekeeper
• timepiece

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

The group behind Medusa maintains a data-leak site displaying victims alongside countdowns to data release, with options to delay the timer for a $10,000 cryptocurrency payment. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 18 Mar. 2025

As for sustainability, the property uses LED lighting, timers for air conditioning and lights, energy-efficient appliances, and eco-friendly cleaning supplies. —Kristin Braswell, Travel + Leisure, 16 Mar. 2025

An essential oil diffuser with a timer can release invigorating scents, like lemon or eucalyptus, in the morning, while lavender or cedar can help ease you into sleep at night. —Katelyn Squiers, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Mar. 2025

Another old timer, Brewery Bar II, 150 Kalamath St., handsomely beat La Loma on 1801 Broadway with 56% of the vote. —Miguel Otárola, The Denver Post, 12 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing timer

• all-timer
• egg timer
• full-timer
• old-timer
• one-timer

Rhymes for timer

• climber
• dimer
• eimer
• primer
• rhymer
• alzheimer
• heterodimer

Kids Definition

timer

noun

tim·​er ˈtī-mər 

1

a

: timepiece

b

: timekeeper sense 2

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