Meaning of the word devices

What do we mean by device?

A contrivance or invention serving a particular purpose, especially a machine used to perform one or more relatively simple tasks. noun

A literary contrivance, such as parallelism or personification, used to achieve a particular effect. noun

A decorative design, figure, or pattern, as one used in embroidery. synonym: figure. noun

A graphic symbol or motto, especially in heraldry. noun

A plan or scheme for accomplishing something. noun

(leave to (one’s) own devices) To allow (someone) to do as he or she pleases. idiom

(leave to (one’s) own devices) To force (someone) to cope or manage without assistance. idiom

Disposition; desire; will; pleasure. noun

Opinion; view. noun

The act or state of devising or inventing; invention; inventiveness; a contriving. noun

An invention or a contrivance; something devised or fitted for a particular use or purpose, especially something of a simple character or of little complexity: as, a device for checking motion. noun

A scheme or plan; something devised or studied out for promoting an end; specifically, something contrived for an evil or a selfish purpose; a wrongful project, stratagem, or trick. noun

Something fancifully designed, as a picture, a, pattern, a piece of embroidery, the cut or ornament of a garment, etc. noun

The representation of some object, group of objects, or scene, generally accompanied by a motto or other legend, and used as an expression of the bearer’s aspirations or principles. noun

The motto attached to or suited for such an emblem. noun

A spectacle; a show. noun

Synonyms Contrivance, Shift, etc. (see expedient, n.; see also artifice), wile, ruse, manœuver, trick. noun

Design, symbol. noun

Any piece of equipment made for a particular purpose, especially a mechanical or electrical one.

A peripheral device; an item of hardware.

A project or scheme, often designed to deceive; a stratagem; an artifice.

An improvised explosive device, home-made bomb

A technique that an author or speaker uses to evoke an emotional response in the audience; a rhetorical device.

A motto, emblem, or other mark used to distinguish the bearer from others. A device differs from a badge or cognizance primarily because as it is a personal distinction, and not a badge borne by members of the same house successively.

Power of devising; invention; contrivance.

An image used in whole or in part as a trademark or service mark.

An image or logo denoting official or proprietary authority or provenience.

A spectacle or show.

Opinion; decision.

A line of shit told to gullible dumb asses. Urban Dictionary

The primary male genital organ aka penis aka cock, sometimes it is mechanical-like in nature Urban Dictionary

1. A very hot woman.
2. A nerdy word for a tool. Urban Dictionary

An VERY hot woman. Urban Dictionary

A term used to describe discrimination, or prejudice based on the devices people use in everyday life, to browse the web or to game, etc. Urban Dictionary

An object that is required to complete a the task at hand, e.g. TV remote, mobile phone, condom, spliff Urban Dictionary

Spending way too much time with eyes glued to your handheld device. Urban Dictionary

When a multi-platform program or application releases a feature for one platform, such as Android, but not another, such as iOS. Urban Dictionary

An item that is being fapulated or has been fapulated recently Urban Dictionary

Alternate saying for a lighter, rumor has it that it was invented by some urban wanderers wandering Tel Aviv for redemption and sexual pursuit. English speakers unable to speak Hebrew for shit these tourists went around asking Israelis to borrow their «fire device» Urban Dictionary

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Look up device in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.

A device is usually a constructed tool. Device may also refer to:

Technology[edit]

Computing[edit]

  • Device, a colloquial term encompassing desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, etc.
  • Device file, an interface of a device driver
  • Peripheral, any device attached to a computer that expands its functionality

Warfare[edit]

  • Improvised explosive device (IED)
  • Nuclear weapon

Other uses in technology[edit]

  • Appliance, a device for a particular task
  • Electronic component
  • Gadget
  • Machine
  • Medical device

Arts, entertainment, and media[edit]

Music[edit]

Groups[edit]

  • Device (metal band), American industrial metal band active 2012–2014
  • Device (pop-rock band), American pop-rock trio from the mid 1980s

Albums[edit]

  • Device (Device album), 2013
  • Device (Eon album), 2006

Other uses in arts, entertainment, and media[edit]

  • Plot device, as in storytelling
  • Rhetorical device, a technique used in writing or speaking
  • The Device, a 2014 American science fiction horror film

Other uses[edit]

  • Dev1ce or Device, nicknames for Nicolai Reedtz, a Danish professional CS:GO player
  • Device, something that can be trademarked, such as a logotype (or «logo») in printing or in law
  • Devices, aspects of a military-award decoration in the United Kingdom
  • Personal device, another name for a heraldic badge

People with the surname Device[edit]

  • Alizon Device (died 1612), executed as one of the Pendle witches
  • Elizabeth Device (died 1612), executed as one of the Pendle witches
  • James Device (died 1612), executed as one of the Pendle witches
  • Jennet Device (fl. 1612), witness at the trial of the Pendle witches

See also[edit]

  • Devise

1

b

: something fanciful, elaborate, or intricate in design

c

: something (such as a figure of speech) in a literary work designed to achieve a particular artistic effect

irony and other literary devices

e

: a conventional stage practice or means (such as a stage whisper) used to achieve a particular dramatic effect

f

: a piece of equipment or a mechanism designed to serve a special purpose or perform a special function

smartphones and other electronic devices

a hidden recording device

3

heraldry

: an emblematic design used especially as a heraldic bearing (see bearing sense 4)

Synonyms

Example Sentences



The store sells TVs, VCRs, and other electronic devices.



agreeing to dismantle all nuclear devices



a useful mnemonic device for remembering the names of the planets



The company’s method of tracking expenses is just a device to make it seem more profitable.

Recent Examples on the Web

The same tricks that work for wiping down your gadgets are great for joysticks, controllers, and all those other hard surfaces on gaming devices.


Jennifer Jolly, USA TODAY, 11 Apr. 2023





Do not buy the cheapest device.


Aliza Chasan, CBS News, 11 Apr. 2023





Rhannon put the device’s pads on his father’s chest.


Gina Kolata, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2023





Government bans The United States and other Western nations have banned the app on government devices, with the Biden administration threatening to go further by imposing a broader ban unless TikTok’s Chinese owners sell their stakes in the company.


Hilary Whiteman, CNN, 10 Apr. 2023





Right Now, Including a Meat Thermometer for 81% Off The device‘s purification feature is useful year-round, while the bladeless fan component comes in handy during the warmer months.


Nicola Fumo, Peoplemag, 10 Apr. 2023





With Bluetooth and WiFi functionality, there’s a 165-foot range on the device.


Maya Polton, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Apr. 2023





Those sensors can be used in concert to improve accuracy, or used individually if one sensor type is degraded by counter-measures or the explosive device encounters smoke, fog, or rain (which is why ‘StormBreaker’ is all-weather capable).


Sébastien Roblin, Popular Mechanics, 9 Apr. 2023





The company has bought up at least seven virtual reality studios to improve the range of apps available on its devices.


Naomi Nix, Washington Post, 7 Apr. 2023



See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word ‘device.’ Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English devis, devise, from Anglo-French, division, plan, from deviser to divide, regulate, tell — more at devise

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of device was
in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near device

Cite this Entry

“Device.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/device. Accessed 14 Apr. 2023.

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Merriam-Webster unabridged

types:

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acoustic device

a device for amplifying or transmitting sound

adapter, adaptor

device that enables something to be used in a way different from that for which it was intended or makes different pieces of apparatus compatible

afterburner

a device injects fuel into a hot exhaust for extra thrust

agglomerator

a device that causes material to gather into rounded balls

aerofoil, airfoil, control surface, surface

a device that provides reactive force when in motion relative to the surrounding air; can lift or control a plane in flight

alarm, alarm system, warning device

a device that signals the occurrence of some undesirable event

appliance, contraption, contrivance, convenience, gadget, gismo, gizmo, widget

a device or control that is very useful for a particular job

applicator, applier

a device for applying a substance

aspergill, aspersorium

a short-handled device with a globe containing a sponge; used for sprinkling holy water

automatic pilot, autopilot, robot pilot

a navigational device that automatically keeps ships or planes or spacecraft on a steady course

bait, decoy, lure

something used to lure fish or other animals into danger so they can be trapped or killed

billiard marker

a device for keeping the score in a game of billiards

bird feeder, birdfeeder, feeder

an outdoor device that supplies food for wild birds

blower

a device that produces a current of air

bootjack

has V-shaped notch for pulling off boots

breathalyser, breathalyzer

a device that measures chemicals (especially the alcohol content) in a person’s expired breath

breathing apparatus, breathing device, breathing machine, ventilator

a device that facilitates breathing in cases of respiratory failure

bubbler

any of various devices in which air or some other gas is bubbled through a liquid

buffer, fender

a cushion-like device that reduces shock due to an impact

catapult, launcher

a device that launches aircraft from a warship

battery charger, charger

a device for charging or recharging batteries

clip-on

a device (as an earring, sunglasses, microphone etc.) that is attached by clips

comb

a flat device with narrow pointed teeth on one edge; disentangles or arranges hair

baby’s dummy, comforter, pacifier, teething ring

device used for an infant to suck or bite on

conductor

a device designed to transmit electricity, heat, etc.

birth control device, contraceptive, contraceptive device, preventative, preventive, prophylactic device

an agent or device intended to prevent conception

converter, convertor

a device for changing one substance or form or state into another

corer

a device for removing the core from apples

corrective, restorative

a device for treating injury or disease

crusher

a device that crushes something

cryptograph

a device for deciphering codes and ciphers

cutoff

a device that terminates the flow in a pipe

dampener, moistener

a device that dampens or moistens something

damper, muffler

a device that decreases the amplitude of electronic, mechanical, acoustical, or aerodynamic oscillations

deflector

a device intended to turn aside the flow of something (water or air or smoke etc)

dental appliance

a device to repair teeth or replace missing teeth

depressor

a device used by physician to press a part down or aside

detector, sensing element, sensor

any device that receives a signal or stimulus (as heat or pressure or light or motion etc.) and responds to it in a distinctive manner

diestock

a device that holds the dies that cut external threads on metal cylinders

drive

(computer science) a device that writes data onto or reads data from a storage medium

drop forge, drop hammer, drop press

device for making large forgings

elastic device

any flexible device that will return to its original shape when stretched

electrical device

a device that produces or is powered by electricity

electronic device

a device that accomplishes its purpose electronically

energiser, energizer

a device that supplies electrical energy

exercise device

a device designed to provide exercise for the user

explosive device

device that bursts with sudden violence from internal energy

fan

a device for creating a current of air by movement of a surface or surfaces

filter

device that removes something from whatever passes through it

asphyxiator, extinguisher, fire extinguisher

a manually operated device for extinguishing small fires

flare

a device that produces a bright light for warning or illumination or identification

fumigator

a device that generates a gas for the purpose of disinfecting or eradicating pests

gas fixture

a device to convey illuminating gas from the pipe to the gas burner

groover

a device that makes grooves by cutting or punching

guard, safety, safety device

a device designed to prevent injury or accidents

heater, warmer

device that heats water or supplies warmth to a room

heat exchanger

device that transfers heat from one liquid to another without allowing them to mix

holding device

a device for holding something

horn

a device having the shape of a horn

foil, hydrofoil

a device consisting of a flat or curved piece (as a metal plate) so that its surface reacts to the water it is passing through

imprint

a device produced by pressure on a surface

indicator

a device for showing the operating condition of some system

instrument

a device that requires skill for proper use

ignition interlock, interlock

a device that prevents an automotive engine from starting

interrupter

a device for automatically interrupting an electric current

jig

a device that holds a piece of machine work and guides the tools operating on it

key

metal device shaped in such a way that when it is inserted into the appropriate lock the lock’s mechanism can be rotated

keyboard

device consisting of a set of keys on a piano or organ or typewriter or typesetting machine or computer or the like

Kinetoscope

a device invented by Edison that gave an impression of movement as an endless loop of film moved continuously over a light source with a rapid shutter; precursor of the modern motion picture

doorknocker, knocker, rapper

a device (usually metal and ornamental) attached by a hinge to a door

lift

a device worn in a shoe or boot to make the wearer look taller or to correct a shortened leg

lifting device

a device for lifting heavy loads

igniter, ignitor, light, lighter

a device for lighting or igniting fuel or charges or fires

machine

any mechanical or electrical device that transmits or modifies energy to perform or assist in the performance of human tasks

magnet

(physics) a device that attracts iron and produces a magnetic field

mechanism

device consisting of a piece of machinery; has moving parts that perform some function

memory device, storage device

a device that preserves information for retrieval

instrument, musical instrument

any of various devices or contrivances that can be used to produce musical tones or sounds

nest egg

device consisting of an artificial egg left in a nest to induce hens to lay their eggs in it

noisemaker

a device (such as a clapper or bell or horn) used to make a loud noise at a celebration

optical device

a device for producing or controlling light

override

a manually operated device to correct the operation of an automatic device

paper feed

a device for inserting sheets of paper into a printer or typewriter

peeler

a device for peeling vegetables or fruits

pick, plectron, plectrum

a small thin device (of metal or plastic or ivory) used to pluck a stringed instrument

PTO, power takeoff

a device that transfers power from an engine (as in a tractor or other motor vehicle) to another piece of equipment (as to a pump or jackhammer)

goad, prod

a pointed instrument that is used to prod into a state of motion

autocue, prompter

a device that displays words for people to read

pull

a device used for pulling something

reflector

device that reflects radiation

button, release

a device that when pressed will release part of a mechanism

remote, remote control

a device that can be used to control a machine or apparatus from a distance

reset

device for resetting instruments or controls

constraint, restraint

a device that impede’s something’s motion

router

(computer science) a device that forwards data packets between computer networks

runner

device consisting of the parts on which something can slide along

scratcher

a device used for scratching

shoehorn

a device used for easing the foot into a shoe

shoetree

a wooden or metal device that is inserted into a shoe to preserve its shape when it is not being worn

shooting stick

device that resembles a spiked walking stick but the top opens into a seat

shredder

a device that shreds documents (usually in order to prevent the wrong people from reading them)

signaling device

a device used to send signals

snowshoe

a device to help you walk on deep snow; a lightweight frame shaped like a racquet is strengthened with cross pieces and contains a network of thongs; one is worn on each foot

sounder

a device for making soundings

source of illumination

any device serving as a source of visible electromagnetic radiation

stabiliser, stabilizer

a device for making something stable

stemmer

a device for removing stems from fruit (as from grapes or apples)

straightener

a device for straightening

reinforcement, strengthener

a device designed to provide additional strength

stylus

a sharp pointed device attached to the cartridge of a record player

suction cup

a cup-shaped device (made of rubber, glass, or plastic) that produces a partial vacuum; used to adhere or draw something to a surface

support

any device that bears the weight of another thing

sweatbox

a device that causes tobacco leaves or fruit or hides to sweat

synchroflash

a device used in photography to synchronize the peak of a flash with the opening of the camera shutter

take-up

any of various devices for reducing slack (as in a sewing machine) or taking up motion (as in a loom)

teaser

a device for teasing wool

dart thrower, spear thrower, throwing board, throwing stick

a device resembling a sling that is used in various primitive societies to propel a dart or spear

tilter

a device for emptying a cask by tilting it without disturbing the dregs

pair of tongs, tongs

any of various devices for taking hold of objects; usually have two hinged legs with handles above and pointed hooks below

toy

a device regarded as providing amusement

trap

a device in which something (usually an animal) can be caught and penned

trigger

a device that activates or releases or causes something to happen

valve

device in a brass wind instrument for varying the length of the air column to alter the pitch of a tone

vaporiser, vaporizer

a device that puts out a substance in the form of a vapor (especially for medicinal inhalation)

ventilator

a device (such as a fan) that introduces fresh air or expels foul air

washboard

device consisting of a corrugated surface to scrub clothes on

water cooler

a device for cooling and dispensing drinking water

acoustic storage

a storage device consisting of acoustic delay lines

action, action mechanism

the operating part that transmits power to a mechanism

actuator

a mechanism that puts something into automatic action

aileron

an airfoil that controls lateral motion

air bag

a safety restraint in an automobile; the bag inflates on collision and prevents the driver or passenger from being thrown forward

airbrake, dive brake

a small parachute or articulated flap to reduce the speed of an aircraft

air cleaner, air filter

a filter that removes dust from the air that passes through it

analyser, analyzer

an instrument that performs analyses

andiron, dog, dog-iron, firedog

metal supports for logs in a fireplace

ankus

an elephant goad with a sharp spike and a hook

annunciator

an indicator that announces which electrical circuit has been active (as on a telephone switchboard)

answering machine

an electronic device that answers the telephone and records messages

aerial, antenna, transmitting aerial

an electrical device that sends or receives radio or television signals

Aqua-Lung, aqualung, scuba

a device (trade name Aqua-Lung) that lets divers breathe under water; scuba is an acronym for self-contained underwater breathing apparatus

arch support

a support for the arch of the foot

arrester, arrester hook

a restraint that slows airplanes as they land on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier

assembly

a group of machine parts that fit together to form a self-contained unit

attenuator

an electrical device for attenuating the strength of an electrical signal

autofocus

an optical device for focussing a camera or other instrument automatically

automaton, golem, robot

a mechanism that can move automatically

automobile horn, car horn, hooter, horn, motor horn

a device on an automobile for making a warning noise

auxiliary storage, external storage, secondary storage

a data storage device that is not the main memory of a computer

axis, axis of rotation

the center around which something rotates

back, backrest

a support that you can lean against while sitting

backboard

a board used to support the back of someone or something

backing, mount

something forming a back that is added for strengthening

backscratcher

a long-handled scratcher for scratching your back

bacteria bed

layer of sand or gravel used to expose sewage effluent to air and the action of microorganisms

bagger

a machine for putting objects or substances into bags

ballast, light ballast

an electrical device for starting and regulating fluorescent and discharge lamps

baluster

one of a number of closely spaced supports for a railing

band

a restraint put around something to hold it together

bar

a horizontal rod that serves as a support for gymnasts as they perform exercises

bar magnet

a magnet in the form of a bar with magnetic poles at each end

barrel organ, grind organ, hand organ, hurdy gurdy, hurdy-gurdy, street organ

a musical instrument that makes music by rotation of a cylinder studded with pegs

base, pedestal, stand

a support or foundation

bass

the member with the lowest range of a family of musical instruments

battery, electric battery

a device that produces electricity; may have several primary or secondary cells arranged in parallel or series

bearing

a rotating support placed between moving parts to allow them to move easily

bearing wall

any wall supporting a floor or the roof of a building

bedpost

any of 4 vertical supports at the corners of a bedstead

beeper, pager

an electronic device that generates a series of beeps when the person carrying it is being paged

bell

a hollow device made of metal that makes a ringing sound when struck

bellows

a mechanical device that blows a strong current of air; used to make a fire burn more fiercely or to sound a musical instrument

bellpull

a handle or cord that is pulled to ring a doorbell or a servant’s bell etc.

Bessemer converter

a refractory-lined furnace used to convert pig iron into steel by the Bessemer process

bimetallic strip

a strip consisting of two metals that bends with a rise in temperature

biprism

an optical device for obtaining interference fringes

birdcall

a device for imitating a birdcall

bite plate, biteplate

a removable dental appliance that is worn in the palate for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes

blade

the part of the skate that slides on the ice

bomb

an explosive device fused to explode under specific conditions

bookend

a support placed at the end of a row of books to keep them upright (on a shelf or table)

brace, bracing

a structural member used to stiffen a framework

brace, braces, orthodontic braces

an appliance that corrects dental irregularities

brace

a support that steadies or strengthens something else

bracket, wall bracket

a support projecting from a wall (as to hold a shelf)

brake

a restraint used to slow or stop a vehicle

brake

anything that slows or hinders a process

brake pad

one of the pads that apply friction to both sides of the brake disk

brake shoe, shoe, skid

a restraint provided when the brake linings are moved hydraulically against the brake drum to retard the wheel’s rotation

brasier, brazier

large metal container in which coal or charcoal is burned; warms people who must stay outside for long times

bridge

a wooden support that holds the strings up

brush

conducts current between rotating and stationary parts of a generator or motor

buffer, buffer storage, buffer store

(computer science) a part of RAM used for temporary storage of data that is waiting to be sent to a device; used to compensate for differences in the rate of flow of data between components of a computer system

burglar alarm

a warning device that is tripped off by the occurrence of a burglary

bus, busbar

an electrical conductor that makes a common connection between several circuits

buzzer

a signaling device that makes a buzzing sound

cable, line, transmission line

a conductor for transmitting electrical or optical signals or electric power

calculating machine, calculator

a small machine that is used for mathematical calculations

calender

a machine that smooths or glazes paper or cloth by pressing it between plates or passing it through rollers

calliope, steam organ

a musical instrument consisting of a series of steam whistles played from a keyboard

camera lucida

an optical device consisting of an attachment that enables an observer to view simultaneously the image and a drawing surface for sketching it

capacitance, capacitor, condenser, electrical condenser

an electrical device characterized by its capacity to store an electric charge

carriage

a machine part that carries something else

cartridge ejector, ejector

a mechanism in a firearm that ejects the empty shell case after firing

cartridge extractor, cartridge remover, extractor

a mechanism in a firearm that pulls an empty shell case out of the chamber and passes it to the ejector

ATM, automated teller, automated teller machine, automatic teller, automatic teller machine, cash dispenser, cash machine

an unattended machine (outside some banks) that dispenses money when a personal coded card is used

catalytic converter

a converter that uses a platinum-iridium catalyst to oxidize pollutants and carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide and water; an antipollution device on an automotive exhaust system

catch, stop

a restraint that checks the motion of something

cauterant, cautery

an instrument or substance used to destroy tissue for medical reasons (eg removal of a wart) by burning it with a hot iron or an electric current or a caustic or by freezing it

CD drive

a drive that reads a compact disc and that is connected to an audio system

CD-ROM drive

a drive that is connected to a computer and on which a CD-ROM can be `played’

cell, electric cell

a device that delivers an electric current as the result of a chemical reaction

cervical cap

a contraceptive device consisting of a small thimble-shaped cup that is placed over the uterine cervix to prevent the entrance of spermatozoa

chain

anything that acts as a restraint

chuck

a holding device consisting of adjustable jaws that center a workpiece in a lathe or center a tool in a drill

chum

bait consisting of chopped fish and fish oils that are dumped overboard to attract fish

cigar lighter, cigarette lighter, pocket lighter

a lighter for cigars or cigarettes

circuit, electric circuit, electrical circuit

an electrical device that provides a path for electrical current to flow

clamp, clinch

a device (generally used by carpenters) that holds things firmly together

clockwork

any mechanism of geared wheels that is driven by a coiled spring; resembles the works of a mechanical clock

coelostat

optical device used to follow the path of a celestial body and reflect its light into a telescope; has a movable and a fixed mirror

coffee filter

filter (usually of paper) that passes the coffee and retains the coffee grounds

coil

a contraceptive device placed inside a woman’s womb

collimator

optical device consisting of a tube containing a convex achromatic lens at one end and a slit at the other with the slit at the focus of the lens; light rays leave the slit as a parallel beam

comber

a machine that separates and straightens the fibers of cotton or wool

computer, computing device, computing machine, data processor, electronic computer, information processing system

a machine for performing calculations automatically

computer keyboard, keypad

a keyboard that is a data input device for computers; arrangement of keys is modelled after the typewriter keyboard

cement mixer, concrete mixer

a machine with a large revolving drum in which cement is mixed with other materials to make concrete

control, controller

a mechanism that controls the operation of a machine

board, control board, control panel, instrument panel, panel

electrical device consisting of a flat insulated surface that contains switches and dials and meters for controlling other electrical devices

convector

a space heater that transfers heat to the surrounding air by convection

cooling, cooling system

a mechanism for keeping something cool

cord, electric cord

a light insulated conductor for household use

corker

a machine that is used to put corks in bottles

cotton gin, gin

a machine that separates the seeds from raw cotton fibers

crane

lifts and moves heavy objects; lifting tackle is suspended from a pivoted boom that rotates around a vertical axis

cap, crown, crownwork, jacket, jacket crown

(dentistry) dental appliance consisting of an artificial crown for a broken or decayed tooth

currycomb

a square comb with rows of small teeth; used to curry horses

cursor, pointer

(computer science) indicator consisting of a movable spot of light (an icon) on a visual display; moving it allows the user to point to commands or screen positions

damper block, piano damper

damper consisting of a small felted block that drops onto a piano string to stop its vibration

dash-pot

a mechanical damper; the vibrating part is attached to a piston that moves in a chamber filled with liquid

data converter

converter for changing information from one code to another

decoder

a machine that converts a coded text into ordinary language

defibrillator

an electronic device that administers an electric shock of preset voltage to the heart through the chest wall in an attempt to restore the normal rhythm of the heart during ventricular fibrillation

defroster, deicer

heater that removes ice or frost (as from a windshield or a refrigerator or the wings of an airplane)

delayed action

a mechanism that automatically delays the release of a camera shutter for a fixed period of time so that the photographer can appear in the picture

demister

heater that removes mist from the windshield of a car

dental plate, denture, plate

a dental appliance that artificially replaces missing teeth

cap, detonating device, detonator

a mechanical or electrical explosive device or a small amount of explosive; can be used to initiate the reaction of a disrupting explosive

dial

the circular graduated indicator on various measuring instruments

contraceptive diaphragm, diaphragm, pessary

a contraceptive device consisting of a flexible dome-shaped cup made of rubber or plastic; it is filled with spermicide and fitted over the uterine cervix

diffraction grating, grating

optical device consisting of a surface with many parallel grooves in it; disperses a beam of light (or other electromagnetic radiation) into its wavelengths to produce its spectrum

diffuser, diffusor

optical device that distributes the light of a lamp evenly

Winchester drive, disc drive, disk drive, hard drive

computer hardware that holds and spins a magnetic or optical disk and reads and writes information on it

display, video display

an electronic device that represents information in visual form

display adapter, display adaptor

(computer science) an electronic device that converts information in memory to video output to a display

distributer, distributor, electrical distributor

electrical device that distributes voltage to the spark plugs of a gasoline engine in the order of the firing sequence

dongle

(computer science) an electronic device that must be attached to a computer in order for it to use protected software

doubler

an electronic device that doubles the voltage or the frequency of an input signal

drafting instrument

an instrument used by a draftsman in making drawings

drain basket

a filter in a sink drain; traps debris but passes water

drive

a mechanism by which force or power is transmitted in a machine

drive line, drive line system

mechanism that transmits power from the engine to the driving wheels of a motor vehicle

electrical converter

converter that converts alternating current into direct current or vice versa

blower, electric fan

a fan run by an electric motor

electrode

a conductor used to make electrical contact with some part of a circuit

electrograph

electrical device used for etching by electrolytic means

electromagnet

a temporary magnet made by coiling wire around an iron core; when current flows in the coil the iron becomes a magnet

electronic converter

(telecommunication) converter for converting a signal from one frequency to another

electronic instrument, electronic musical instrument

a musical instrument that generates sounds electronically

Van de Graaff generator, Wimshurst machine, electrostatic generator, electrostatic machine

electrical device that produces a high voltage by building up a charge of static electricity

elevator, lift

lifting device consisting of a platform or cage that is raised and lowered mechanically in a vertical shaft in order to move people from one floor to another in a building

elevator

the airfoil on the tailplane of an aircraft that makes it ascend or descend

engine

an instrument or machine that is used in warfare, such as a battering ram, catapult, artillery piece, etc.

exercise bike, exercycle

an exercise device resembling a stationary bike

exhaust fan

a fan that moves air out of an enclosure

external drive

a drive with its own power supply and fan mounted outside the computer system enclosure and connected to the computer by a cable

extractor

an instrument for extracting tight-fitting components

fail-safe

a mechanism capable of returning to a safe state in case there is a failure or malfunction

farm machine

a machine used in farming

fastener, fastening, fixing, holdfast

restraint that attaches to something or holds something in place

fender

a low metal guard to confine falling coals to a hearth

field magnet

a magnet that provides a magnetic field in a dynamo or electric motor

filling

(dentistry) a dental appliance consisting of any of various substances (as metal or plastic) inserted into a prepared cavity in a tooth

film advance

a mechanism for advancing film in a camera or projector

filter

an electrical device that alters the frequency spectrum of signals passing through it

filter bed

filter consisting of a layer of sand or gravel for filtering water

fin

a stabilizer on a ship that resembles the fin of a fish

finder, view finder, viewfinder

optical device that helps a user to find the target of interest

fine-tooth comb, fine-toothed comb

a comb with teeth set close together

fire alarm, smoke alarm

an alarm that is tripped off by fire or smoke

coal tongs, fire tongs

tongs for taking hold of burning coals

fish lure, fisherman’s lure

(angling) any bright artificial bait consisting of plastic or metal mounted with hooks and trimmed with feathers

flap, flaps

a movable airfoil that is part of an aircraft wing; used to increase lift or drag

flasher

an electrical device that automatically turns a lamp on and off (as for an advertising display)

flux applicator

an applicator for applying flux (as in soldering)

flytrap

a trap for catching flies

foghorn

a warning device consisting of a horn that generates a loud low tone

foot

a support resembling a pedal extremity

foothold, footing

a place providing support for the foot in standing or climbing

franking machine

a machine that automatically stamps letters or packages passing through it and computes the total charge

FAE, fuel-air explosive

a device consisting of a container of fuel and two explosive charges; the first charge bursts open the fuel container at a predetermined height and spreads the fuel in a cloud that mixes with atmospheric oxygen; the second charge detonates the cloud which creates an enormous blast wave and incinerates whatever is below

fuel filter

a filter in the fuel line that screens out dirt and rust particles from the fuel

fuel gauge, fuel indicator

an indicator of the amount of fuel remaining in a vehicle

fuse, fusee, fuze, fuzee, primer, priming

any igniter that is used to initiate the burning of a propellant

electrical fuse, fuse, safety fuse

an electrical device that can interrupt the flow of electrical current when it is overloaded

fusee, fuzee

a colored flare used as a warning signal by trucks and trains

gadgetry

appliances collectively

gag, muzzle

restraint put into a person’s mouth to prevent speaking or shouting

gas heater

a heater that burns gas for heat

gear, gear mechanism

a mechanism for transmitting motion for some specific purpose (as the steering gear of a vehicle)

generator

an electronic device for producing a signal voltage

gimbal

an appliance that allows an object (such as a ship’s compass) to remain horizontal even as its support tips

gnomon

indicator provided by the stationary arm whose shadow indicates the time on the sundial

ground bait

bait scattered on the water to attract fish

guitar pick

a plectrum used to pluck a guitar

gyrostabiliser, gyrostabilizer

a stabilizer consisting of a heavy gyroscope that spins on a vertical axis; reduces side-to-side rolling of a ship or plane

blow drier, blow dryer, hair drier, hair dryer, hand blower

a hand-held electric blower that can blow warm air onto the hair; used for styling hair

handrest

a support for the hand

hanger

anything from which something can be hung

harness

a support consisting of an arrangement of straps for holding something to the body (especially one supporting a person suspended from a parachute)

harp

a pair of curved vertical supports for a lampshade

headstock

the stationary support in a machine or power tool that supports and drives a revolving part (as a chuck or the spindle on a lathe)

ear trumpet, hearing aid

a conical acoustic device formerly used to direct sound to the ear of a hearing-impaired person

deaf-aid, hearing aid

an electronic device that amplifies sound and is worn to compensate for poor hearing

heating pad, hot pad

heater consisting of electrical heating elements contained in a flexible pad

heat sink

a metal conductor specially designed to conduct (and radiate) heat

hoist

lifting device for raising heavy or cumbersome objects

holder

a holding device

homing device

the mechanism in a guided missile that guides it toward its objective

hop-picker, hopper

a machine used for picking hops

horizontal stabiliser, horizontal stabilizer, tailplane

the horizontal airfoil of an aircraft’s tail assembly that is fixed and to which the elevator is hinged

horn

an alarm device that makes a loud warning sound

horn

a noisemaker (as at parties or games) that makes a loud noise when you blow through it

hydraulic system

a mechanism operated by the resistance offered or the pressure transmitted when a liquid is forced through a small opening or tube

ice tongs

tongs for lifting blocks of ice

ignition, ignition system

the mechanism that ignites the fuel in an internal-combustion engine

ignition key

a key that operates the ignition switch of an automotive engine

impression

(dentistry) an imprint of the teeth and gums in wax or plaster

I.E.D., IED, improvised explosive device

an explosive device that is improvised

inductance, inductor

an electrical device (typically a conducting coil) that introduces inductance into a circuit

injector

a contrivance for injecting (e.g., water into the boiler of a steam engine or particles into an accelerator etc.)

instrument of execution

an instrument designed and used to take the life of a condemned person

instrument of punishment

an instrument designed and used to punish a condemned person

internal drive

a drive mounted inside of a computer

IUD, intrauterine device

contraceptive device consisting of a piece of bent plastic or metal that is inserted through the vagina into the uterus

jack

an electrical device consisting of a connector socket designed for the insertion of a plug

jaw

holding device consisting of one or both of the opposing parts of a tool that close to hold an object

jew’s harp, jews’ harp, mouth bow

a small lyre-shaped musical instrument that is placed between the teeth and played by twanging a wire tongue while changing the shape of the mouth cavity

Kerr cell

optical device consisting of a transparent cell with two electrodes between two polarizing media; passes light only if the two planes of polarization are parallel; used as a high-speed shutter or to modulate a laser beam

keyboard instrument

a musical instrument that is played by means of a keyboard

lamp

an artificial source of visible illumination

laser, optical maser

an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation; an optical device that produces an intense monochromatic beam of coherent light

cobbler’s last, last, shoemaker’s last

holding device shaped like a human foot that is used to fashion or repair shoes

latchkey

key for raising or drawing back a latch or opening an outside door

lead, leash, tether

restraint consisting of a rope (or light chain) used to restrain an animal

leg

one of the supports for a piece of furniture

lens, lens system, lense

a transparent optical device used to converge or diverge transmitted light and to form images

level, spirit level

indicator that establishes the horizontal when a bubble is centered in a tube of liquid

light, light source

any device serving as a source of illumination

diffusing screen, light filter

a transparent filter that reduces the light (or some wavelengths of the light) passing through it

lightning conductor, lightning rod

a metallic conductor that is attached to a high point and leads to the ground; protects the building from destruction by lightning

load

electrical device to which electrical power is delivered

lobster pot

trap for catching lobsters

ignition lock, lock

a restraint incorporated into the ignition switch to prevent the use of a vehicle by persons who do not have the key

lock

a mechanism that detonates the charge of a gun

logic element

an electronic device that performs an elementary logic operation

machinery

machines or machine systems collectively

machine tool

a powered machine for cutting or shaping or finishing metals or other materials

disc, disk, magnetic disc, magnetic disk

(computer science) a memory device consisting of a flat disk covered with a magnetic coating on which information is stored

magnetic needle

a slender magnet suspended in a magnetic compass on a mounting with little friction; used to indicate the direction of the earth’s magnetic pole

mag tape, magnetic tape, tape

memory device consisting of a long thin plastic strip coated with iron oxide; used to record audio or video signals or to store computer information

mantrap

a trap for catching trespassers

friction match, lucifer, match

lighter consisting of a thin piece of wood or cardboard tipped with combustible chemical; ignites with friction

match

a burning piece of wood or cardboard

measuring device, measuring instrument, measuring system

instrument that shows the extent or amount or quantity or degree of something

mechanical device

mechanism consisting of a device that works on mechanical principles

medical instrument

instrument used in the practice of medicine

megaphone

a cone-shaped acoustic device held to the mouth to intensify and direct the human voice

computer memory, computer storage, memory, memory board, storage, store

an electronic memory device

metal detector

detector that gives a signal when it detects the presence of metal; used to detect the presence of stray bits of metal in food products or to find buried metal

milking machine

machine consisting of a suction apparatus for milking cows mechanically

mine

explosive device that explodes on contact; designed to destroy vehicles or ships or to kill or maim personnel

mine detector

detector consisting of an electromagnetic device; used to locate explosive mines

mirror

polished surface that forms images by reflecting light

mod con

modern convenience; the appliances and conveniences characteristic of a modern house

morning-after pill

a large dose of estrogen taken orally within 24 to 72 hours after intercourse; prevents implantation of a fertilized ovum and so acts as a contraceptive; commonly used after rape or incest

motor

machine that converts other forms of energy into mechanical energy and so imparts motion

computer mouse, mouse

a hand-operated electronic device that controls the coordinates of a cursor on your computer screen as you move it around on a pad; on the bottom of the device is a ball that rolls on the surface of the pad

mousetrap

a trap for catching mice

mouthpiece

an acoustic device; the part of a telephone into which a person speaks

multiplexer

a device that can interleave two or more activities

music box, musical box

produces music by means of pins on a revolving cylinder that strike the tuned teeth of a comb-like metal plate

mute

a device used to soften the tone of a musical instrument

muzzle

a leather or wire restraint that fits over an animal’s snout (especially a dog’s nose and jaws) and prevents it from eating or biting

navigational instrument

an instrument used for navigating

net

a trap made of netting to catch fish or birds or insects

Nicol prism

optical device that produces plane-polarized light

oil filter

a filter that removes impurities from the oil used to lubricate an internal-combustion engine

kerosene heater, kerosine heater, oil heater, oilstove

heater that burns oil (as kerosine) for heating or cooking

optical disc, optical disk

a disk coated with plastic that can store digital data as tiny pits etched in the surface; is read with a laser that scans the surface

optical instrument

an instrument designed to aid vision

outrigger

a stabilizer for a canoe; spars attach to a shaped log or float parallel to the hull

oxygen mask

a breathing device that is placed over the mouth and nose; supplies oxygen from an attached storage tank

artificial pacemaker, pacemaker

an implanted electronic device that takes over the function of the natural cardiac pacemaker

pack

a sheet or blanket (either dry or wet) to wrap around the body for its therapeutic effect

face pack, pack

a cream that cleanses and tones the skin

paintbrush

a brush used as an applicator (to apply paint)

parabolic reflector, paraboloid reflector

a concave reflector used to produce a parallel beam when the source is placed at its focus or to focus an incoming parallel beam

paramagnet

magnet made of a substance whose magnetization is proportional to the strength of the magnetic field applied to it

master, master key, passe-partout, passkey

key that secures entrance everywhere

paving machine, pavior, paviour

a machine for laying pavement

perch

support consisting of a branch or rod that serves as a resting place (especially for a bird)

percussion instrument, percussive instrument

a musical instrument in which the sound is produced by one object striking another

permanent magnet, static magnet

a magnet that retains its magnetism after being removed from a magnetic field

perpetual motion machine

a machine that can continue to do work indefinitely without drawing energy from some external source; impossible under the law of conservation of energy

PDA, organiser, organizer, personal digital assistant, personal organiser, personal organizer

a lightweight consumer electronic device that looks like a hand-held computer but instead performs specific tasks; can serve as a diary or a personal database or a telephone or an alarm clock etc.

petard

an explosive device used to break down a gate or wall

needle, phonograph needle

a stylus that formerly made sound by following a groove in a phonograph record

electric eye, magic eye, photocell, photoconductive cell, photoelectric cell

a transducer used to detect and measure light and other radiations

clavier, fingerboard, piano keyboard

a bank of keys on a musical instrument

pick-me-up, pickup

anything with restorative powers

pier

a support for two adjacent bridge spans

pier

(architecture) a vertical supporting structure (as a portion of wall between two doors or windows)

pile driver

a machine that drives piling into the ground

anovulant, anovulatory drug, birth control pill, contraceptive pill, oral contraceptive, oral contraceptive pill, pill

a contraceptive in the form of a pill containing estrogen and progestin to inhibit ovulation and so prevent conception

pillow block

a cast-iron or steel block for supporting a journal or bearing

indicator lamp, pilot lamp, pilot light

indicator consisting of a light to indicate whether power is on or a motor is in operation

pit, pitfall

a trap in the form of a concealed hole

planetarium

an optical device for projecting images of celestial bodies and other astronomical phenomena onto the inner surface of a hemispherical dome

plotter

an instrument (usually driven by a computer) for drawing graphs or pictures

male plug, plug

an electrical device with two or three pins that is inserted in a socket to make an electrical connection

plutonium pit, plutonium trigger

a steel or beryllium sphere containing plutonium 239 that triggers nuclear fission when compressed by explosives

pocket comb, pocketcomb

a small comb suitable for carrying in a pocket

pointer

an indicator as on a dial

polarimeter, polariscope

an optical device used to measure the rotation of the plane of vibration of polarized light

pound net

trap consisting of an arrangement of nets directing fish into an enclosure

digger, excavator, power shovel, shovel

a machine for excavating

power tool

a tool driven by a motor

Cottrell precipitator, electrostatic precipitator, precipitator

removes dust particles from gases by electrostatic precipitation

mechanical press, press

any machine that exerts pressure to form or shape or cut materials or extract liquids or compress solids

press, printing press

a machine used for printing

printer, printing machine

a machine that prints

optical prism, prism

optical device having a triangular shape and made of glass or quartz; used to deviate a beam or invert an image

projector

an optical device for projecting a beam of light

prosthesis, prosthetic device

corrective consisting of a replacement for a part of the body

pullback, tieback

a device (as a decorative loop of cord or fabric) for holding or drawing something back

pull chain

a chain (usually with a handle at the end) that is pulled in order to operate some mechanism (e.g. to flush a toilet)

punkah

a large fan consisting of a frame covered with canvas that is suspended from the ceiling; used in India for circulating air in a room

push-down storage, push-down store, stack

a storage device that handles data so that the next item to be retrieved is the item most recently stored (LIFO)

rack, stand

a support for displaying various articles

radiator

a mechanism consisting of a metal honeycomb through which hot fluids circulate; heat is transferred from the fluid through the honeycomb to the airstream that is created either by the motion of the vehicle or by a fan

radiator

heater consisting of a series of pipes for circulating steam or hot water to heat rooms or buildings

RAM disk

(computer science) a virtual drive that is created by setting aside part of the random-access memory to use as if it were a group of sectors

rattrap

a trap for catching rats

reactor

an electrical device used to introduce reactance into a circuit

read-out, readout

an electronic device the displays information is a visual form

recording

a storage device on which information (sounds or images) have been recorded

phonograph, record player

machine in which rotating records cause a stylus to vibrate and the vibrations are amplified acoustically or electronically

rectifier

electrical device that transforms alternating into direct current

register

(computer science) memory device that is the part of computer memory that has a specific address and that is used to hold information of a specific kind

electrical relay, relay

electrical device such that current flowing through it in one circuit can switch on and off a current in a second circuit

repeater

(electronics) electronic device that amplifies a signal before transmitting it again

resistance, resistor

an electrical device that resists the flow of electrical current

inhalator, respirator

a breathing device for administering long-term artificial respiration

rest

a support on which things can be put

resuscitator

a breathing apparatus used for resuscitation by forcing oxygen into the lungs of a person who has undergone asphyxia or arrest of respiration

retainer

a dental appliance that holds teeth (or a prosthesis) in position after orthodontic treatment

rib

support resembling the rib of an animal

riveter, riveting machine, rivetter

a machine for driving rivets

Rochon prism, Wollaston prism

optical device that produces plane-polarized ultraviolet light

rocker

a curved support that permits the supported object to rock to and fro

rotating mechanism

a mechanism that rotates

rotary wing, rotor blade

the long airfoil that rotates to provide the lift that supports a helicopter in the air

elastic, elastic band, rubber band

a narrow band of elastic rubber used to hold things (such as papers) together

rudder

a hinged vertical airfoil mounted at the tail of an aircraft and used to make horizontal course changes

safety arch

an undecorated arch that is included in order to strengthen or support a construction

life belt, safety belt, safety harness

belt attaching you to some object as a restraint in order to prevent you from getting hurt

safety catch, safety lock

guard consisting of a locking device that prevents a weapon from being fired

scale

an indicator having a graduated sequence of marks

digital scanner, image scanner, scanner

an electronic device that generates a digital representation of an image for data input to a computer

scientific instrument

an instrument used by scientists

drogue, sea anchor

restraint consisting of a canvas covered frame that floats behind a vessel; prevents drifting or maintains the heading into a wind

seal bomb

a small explosive device (resembling a firecracker) that is used underwater in order to frighten mammals away from fishing grounds

seat

any support where you can sit (especially the part of a chair or bench etc. on which you sit)

security, security measure, security system

an electrical device that sets off an alarm when someone tries to break in

Segway, Segway HT, Segway Human Transporter

(trademark) a self-balancing personal transportation device with two wheels; can operate in any level pedestrian environment

feeder, self-feeder

a machine that automatically provides a supply of some material

semiconductor, semiconductor device, semiconductor unit

a conductor made with semiconducting material

bond, hamper, shackle, trammel

a restraint that confines or restricts freedom (especially something used to tie down or restrain a prisoner)

shelf

a support that consists of a horizontal surface for holding objects

cushion, shock, shock absorber

a mechanical damper; absorbs energy of sudden impulses

shoe bomb

an explosive device concealed inside the heel and sole of a shoe

bypass, electrical shunt, shunt

a conductor having low resistance in parallel with another device to divert a fraction of the current

muffler, silencer

a tubular acoustic device inserted in the exhaust system that is designed to reduce noise

simulator

a machine that simulates an environment for the purpose of training or research

siren

an acoustic device producing a loud often wailing sound as a signal or warning

ski

narrow wood or metal or plastic runners used in pairs for gliding over snow

slapstick

acoustic device consisting of two paddles hinged together; used by an actor to make a loud noise without inflicting injury when striking someone

slicer

a machine for cutting; usually with a revolving blade

coin machine, slot machine

a machine that is operated by the insertion of a coin in a slot

gin, noose, snare

a trap for birds or small mammals; often has a slip noose

snorkel

breathing device consisting of a bent tube fitting into a swimmer’s mouth and extending above the surface; allows swimmer to breathe while face down in the water

snow blower, snow thrower

a machine that removes snow by scooping it up and throwing it forcefully through a chute

solar array, solar battery, solar panel

electrical device consisting of a large array of connected solar cells

solar collector, solar dish, solar furnace

a concave mirror that concentrates the rays of the sun; can produce high temperatures

solar heater

a heater that makes direct use of solar energy

solenoid

a coil of wire around an iron core; becomes a magnet when current passes through the coil

sonograph

an instrument that uses the differential transmission and reflection of ultrasonic waves in order to provide an image of a bodily organ

sorter

a machine for sorting things (such as punched cards or letters) into classes

space heater

heater consisting of a self-contained (usually portable) unit to warm a room

spark arrester

electrical device to reduce sparking when electrical contacts are opened or closed

plug, spark plug, sparking plug

electrical device that fits into the cylinder head of an internal-combustion engine and ignites the gas by means of an electric spark

speaking trumpet

a trumpet-shaped acoustic device to intensify and direct the human voice; formerly held to the ear by a hard-of-hearing person

spermatocide, spermicide

a contraceptive agent that kills spermatozoa

spike, spindle

any holding device consisting of a rigid, sharp-pointed object

spoiler

a hinged airfoil on the upper surface of an aircraft wing that is raised to reduce lift and increase drag

spoiler

an airfoil mounted on the rear of a car to reduce lift at high speeds

radius, spoke, wheel spoke

support consisting of a radial member of a wheel joining the hub to the rim

spray gun

an applicator resembling a gun for applying liquid substances (as paint) in the form of a spray

spring

a metal elastic device that returns to its shape or position when pushed or pulled or pressed

gad, spur

a sharp prod fixed to a rider’s heel and used to urge a horse onward

stabilizer

airfoil consisting of a device for stabilizing an aircraft

anti-sway bar, stabilizer bar

a rigid metal bar between the front suspensions and between the rear suspensions of cars and trucks; serves to stabilize the chassis

pestle, stamp

machine consisting of a heavy bar that moves vertically for pounding or crushing ores

staple gun, staplegun, tacker

a hand-held machine for driving staples home

stapler, stapling machine

a machine that inserts staples into sheets of paper in order to fasten them together

steel trap

a trap made of steel with a strong spring and sharp toothlike projections to hold the prey

steering linkage

mechanism consisting of a system of rods and levers connected to the front wheels of a motor vehicle; the steering gear pushes it left or right which swivels the front wheels, causing the vehicle to turn

steering mechanism, steering system

a mechanism by which something is steered (especially a motor vehicle)

stair, step

support consisting of a place to rest the foot while ascending or descending a stairway

stereoscope

an optical device for viewing stereoscopic photographs

stirrup, stirrup iron

support consisting of metal loops into which rider’s feet go

gunstock, stock

the handle of a handgun or the butt end of a rifle or shotgun or part of the support of a machine gun or artillery gun

stool pigeon

a dummy pigeon used to decoy others

stove

any heating apparatus

strainer

a filter to retain larger pieces while smaller pieces and liquids pass through

stringed instrument

a musical instrument in which taut strings provide the source of sound

structural member

support that is a constituent part of any structure or building

suppresser, suppressor

an electrical device for suppressing unwanted currents

surveying instrument, surveyor’s instrument

an instrument used by surveyors

system clock

an electronic device in a computer that issues a steady high-frequency signal that synchronizes all the internal components

tailstock

support consisting of the movable part of a lathe that slides along the bed in alignment with the headstock and is locked into position to support the free end of the workpiece

tape drive, tape transport, transport

a mechanism that transports magnetic tape across the read/write heads of a tape playback/recorder

football tee, tee

support holding a football on end and above the ground preparatory to the kickoff

Teleprompter

a prompter for television performers

test paper

paper impregnated with an indicator for use in chemical tests

textile machine

a machine for making textiles

thunderer

a noisemaker that makes a sound like thunder

tidemark

indicator consisting of a line at the highwater or low-water limits of the tides

time machine

a science fiction machine that is supposed to transport people or objects into the past or the future

tongue depressor

a thin depressor used to press the tongue down during an examination of the mouth and throat

torpedo

a small explosive device that is placed on a railroad track and fires when a train runs over it; the sound of the explosion warns the engineer of danger ahead

torpedo

an explosive device that is set off in an oil well (or a gas well) to start or to increase the flow of oil (or gas)

torque converter

converter for transmitting and amplifying torque (especially by hydraulic means)

trace detector

a screening device for traces of explosives; used at airline terminals

tracer

an instrument used to make tracings

trackball

an electronic device consisting of a rotatable ball in a housing; used to position the cursor and move images on a computer screen

trammel

a restraint that is used to teach a horse to amble

transducer

an electrical device that converts one form of energy into another

transformer

an electrical device by which alternating current of one voltage is changed to another voltage

transponder

electrical device designed to receive a specific signal and automatically transmit a specific reply

treadmill

an exercise device consisting of an endless belt on which a person can walk or jog without changing place

trimmer

a machine that trims timber

electron tube, thermionic tube, thermionic vacuum tube, thermionic valve, tube, vacuum tube

electronic device consisting of a system of electrodes arranged in an evacuated glass or metal envelope

typewriter keyboard

a keyboard for manually entering characters to be printed

ultraviolet lamp, ultraviolet source

any source of illumination that emits ultraviolet radiation

undercarriage

framework that serves as a support for the body of a vehicle

vertical tail

the vertical airfoil in the tail assembly of an aircraft

viewer

an optical device for viewing photographic transparencies

bench vise, vise

a holding device attached to a workbench; has two jaws to hold workpiece firmly in place

water filter

a filter to remove impurities from the water supply

hot-water heater, hot-water tank, water heater

a heater and storage tank to supply heated water

wave guide, waveguide

a hollow metal conductor that provides a path to guide microwaves; used in radar

arm, weapon, weapon system

any instrument or instrumentality used in fighting or hunting

entanglement, web

an intricate trap that entangles or ensnares its victim

whip

an instrument with a handle and a flexible lash that is used for whipping

whirler

a revolving mechanism

whistle

acoustic device that forces air or steam against an edge or into a cavity and so produces a loud shrill sound

winch, windlass

lifting device consisting of a horizontal cylinder turned by a crank on which a cable or rope winds

wind, wind instrument

a musical instrument in which the sound is produced by an enclosed column of air that is moved by the breath

wing

one of the horizontal airfoils on either side of the fuselage of an airplane

conducting wire, wire

a metal conductor that carries electricity over a distance

workhorse

machine that performs dependably under heavy use

innards, workings, works

the internal mechanism of a device

yoke

support consisting of a wooden frame across the shoulders that enables a person to carry buckets hanging from each end

Zamboni

the trademark for a machine that smooths the ice in an ice-skating rink

zapper

an electrical device that can injure or kill by means of electric currents

glass wool

glass fibers spun and massed into bundles resembling wool

diatomaceous earth, diatomite, kieselguhr

a light soil consisting of siliceous diatom remains and often used as a filtering material

barre

a horizontal rod that ballet dancers use as a support as they perform certain exercises

percussion

the group of instruments that are played by striking with a hand or object

  • Top Definitions
  • Synonyms
  • Quiz
  • Related Content
  • Examples
  • British
  • Idioms And Phrases

This shows grade level based on the word’s complexity.

This shows grade level based on the word’s complexity.


noun

a thing made for a particular purpose; an invention or contrivance, especially a mechanical or electrical one.

a plan or scheme for effecting a purpose.

a crafty scheme; trick.

a particular word pattern, figure of speech, combination of word sounds, etc., used in a literary work to evoke a desired effect or arouse a desired reaction in the reader: rhetorical devices.

a mobile device: Students may not bring devices into the secure testing center.Don’t leave your devices in a hot car.

something elaborately or fancifully designed.

a representation or design used as a heraldic charge or as an emblem, badge, trademark, or the like.

a motto.

QUIZ

CAN YOU ANSWER THESE COMMON GRAMMAR DEBATES?

There are grammar debates that never die; and the ones highlighted in the questions in this quiz are sure to rile everyone up once again. Do you know how to answer the questions that cause some of the greatest grammar debates?

Which sentence is correct?

Origin of device

1375–1425; blend of late Middle English devis division, discourse and devise heraldic device, will; both <Anglo-French, Old French <Latin dīvīsa, feminine of dīvīsus;see division

OTHER WORDS FROM device

de·vice·ful, adjectivede·vice·ful·ly, adverbde·vice·ful·ness, noun

WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH device

device , devise

Words nearby device

deviance, deviant, deviate, deviation, deviationism, device, devil, devil and deep blue sea, devil dog, devilfish, devilish

Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Words related to device

accessory, apparatus, appliance, equipment, gadget, gear, machine, material, mechanism, design, method, strategy, agent, arrangement, article, construction, contraption, contrivance, creation, doohickey

How to use device in a sentence

  • Rothamer and colleagues tested devices called mask fitters or mask braces — rubber or plastic frames that fit over the mask molding it more closely to the face.

  • Today he knows that magic was simply the diversity of a forest left to its own devices.

  • That’s not surprising, after all, 85% of all internet users in the United States watched online video content monthly on any of their devices.

  • In others, we get impatient and set off explosive charges or use a powerful sound-making device.

  • New platforms will include slip-resistant tiles, LED lighting, larger digital displays with arrival information and service alerts, stainless-steel shelters, improved surveillance systems and charging ports for riders’ digital devices.

  • I still do find it a tremendously useful device to invent a character and have the character sing the song.

  • Employees strap a device to their heads and power a helicopter drone with their minds.

  • The extending out of one syllable is a great songwriting device.

  • They double down on the plot device of a lone visionary opposed by conventional hierarchies.

  • So filmmakers usually resort to a plot device to compensate for this absence.

  • This takes at first the crude device of a couple of vertical lines attached to the head (see Fig. 4).

  • That was not the device of a woman who loved—it savored rather of the cool state-craft of a Lucrezia Borgia.

  • This would be a device for helping him to revive this hitherto unrecallable name.

  • By a device resorted to in each separate case to help make a more vivid First Impression.

  • It is the fashion there to regard it merely as a device to help an incompetent organist.

British Dictionary definitions for device


noun

a machine or tool used for a specific task; contrivance

euphemistic a bomb

a plan or plot, esp a clever or evil one; scheme; trick

any ornamental pattern or picture, as in embroidery

computer hardware that is designed for a specific function

a written, printed, or painted design or figure, used as a heraldic sign, emblem, trademark, etc

a particular pattern of words, figures of speech, etc, used in literature to produce an effect on the reader

archaic the act or process of planning or devising

leave someone to his own devices to leave someone alone to do as he wishes

Word Origin for device

C13: from Old French devis purpose, contrivance and devise difference, intention, from deviser to divide, control; see devise

Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Idioms and Phrases with device


see leave to someone’s own devices.

The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.

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