gadget

noun

gad·​get ˈga-jət 

: an often small mechanical or electronic device with a practical use but often thought of as a novelty

gadgetry

ˈga-jə-trē 

noun

gadgety

ˈga-jə-tē 

adjective

Synonyms

• appliance
• contraption
• contrivance
• gimmick
• gizmo
• gismo
• jigger
• widget

Examples of gadget in a Sentence

The kitchen is equipped with all the latest gadgets.

cell phones, pagers, and other gadgets

Recent Examples on the Web

Hackers use a variety of methods to turn your gadgets into botnet zombies. —Alex Vakulov, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024

Watch Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas on Disney+ 8-Bit Christmas If the latest and greatest game or gadget tops your child's wish list, then 8-Bit Christmas (2021) is the film for you! —Skyler Caruso, People.com, 21 Dec. 2024

These bite-size gadgets and gizmos will take your stockings to a whole 'nother level. —Louryn Strampe, WIRED, 18 Dec. 2024

One such gadget was the InStyler, which is having somewhat of a resurgence on TikTok right now. —Kara Nesvig, Allure, 17 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

perhaps a sound-symbolic coinage, with final as in fidget entry 1, midget, idjit (nonstandard form of idiot)

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

gadget

noun

gad·​get ˈgaj-ət 

: an interesting, unfamiliar, or unusual device with a practical use

gadgetry

ˈgaj-ə-trē 

noun