gadget
- 01 B1 Intermediate
a small tool or machine that is useful or clever, often for a specific task.
a small mechanical or electronic device, often one that is considered particularly clever or ingenious.
Simple“This kitchen gadget makes it very easy to peel garlic in seconds.”
In context“The salesman demonstrated a variety of clever gadgets designed to simplify home maintenance for elderly residents.”
- 02 B1 Intermediate
a small electronic device like a phone, watch, or camera.
a small consumer electronic product, typically one that is portable or serves a specific digital function.
Simple“He loves buying the latest gadgets, even if he doesn't really need them.”
In context“The tech conference was filled with enthusiasts eager to get their hands on the latest wearable gadgets and mobile accessories.”
Synonymsgizmotech - 03 C2 Proficiency
a short piece of computer code used by hackers to control a program.
a short sequence of machine instructions ending in a return, used in return-oriented programming to execute arbitrary code.
Simple“The attacker used a small gadget in the software to bypass the security.”
In context“The security researcher identified a series of gadgets within the library that could be chained together to achieve remote code execution.”
- 04 C2 Proficiency
a special clip used by glassmakers to hold a piece of glass while they finish it.
a spring clip attached to a punty, used to hold the foot of a glass vessel during the finishing process.
Simple“The glassblower used a gadget to hold the wine glass while shaping the rim.”
In context“Traditional glassmaking requires specialized tools like the gadget to ensure the base of the vessel remains unmarked during the final stages of production.”
Unknown. First used in print by Robert Brown in 1886 (see quote in definition section). Might come from French gâchette or gagée, or from the French family name Gaget, an industrialist who produced promotional gadgets in collaboration with the project to build the statue of Liberty.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.