# gadget

/ˈɡædʒət/ (US) · /ɡˈædʒɪt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gadget
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. a clever device

noun · CEFR B1

a small tool or machine that is useful or clever, often for a specific task.

For teachers: a small mechanical or electronic device, often one that is considered particularly clever or ingenious.

- This kitchen gadget makes it very easy to peel garlic in seconds.
- The salesman demonstrated a variety of clever gadgets designed to simplify home maintenance for elderly residents.

### 2. consumer electronics

noun · CEFR B1 · Informal

a small electronic device like a phone, watch, or camera.

For teachers: a small consumer electronic product, typically one that is portable or serves a specific digital function.

- He loves buying the latest gadgets, even if he doesn't really need them.
- The tech conference was filled with enthusiasts eager to get their hands on the latest wearable gadgets and mobile accessories.

### 3. cybersecurity code

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a short piece of computer code used by hackers to control a program.

For teachers: a short sequence of machine instructions ending in a return, used in return-oriented programming to execute arbitrary code.

- The attacker used a small gadget in the software to bypass the security.
- The security researcher identified a series of gadgets within the library that could be chained together to achieve remote code execution.

### 4. glassmaking tool

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a special clip used by glassmakers to hold a piece of glass while they finish it.

For teachers: a spring clip attached to a punty, used to hold the foot of a glass vessel during the finishing process.

- The glassblower used a gadget to hold the wine glass while shaping the rim.
- Traditional glassmaking requires specialized tools like the gadget to ensure the base of the vessel remains unmarked during the final stages of production.

## Examples

- This kitchen gadget makes peeling potatoes much faster.
- He loves buying the latest high-tech gadgets even if he rarely uses all their features.
- While the basic model is functional, the premium version includes several specialized gadgets designed to appeal to professional photographers and tech enthusiasts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.