English Reference

Word

input device

Definition

compound. a piece of equipment that lets you send information or instructions to a computer.

compound. a hardware component used to provide data and control signals to an information processing system. Countable; typically used in technical or educational contexts regarding computing.

Examples

“A mouse is a common input device.”

“The technician checked every input device, including the keyboard and the scanner, to find the connection error.”

“Modern gaming consoles rely on a variety of input devices, ranging from traditional handheld controllers to sophisticated motion-tracking cameras.”

Examples

simple

“A mouse is a common input device.”

contextual

“The technician checked every input device, including the keyboard and the scanner, to find the connection error.”

complex

“Modern gaming consoles rely on a variety of input devices, ranging from traditional handheld controllers to sophisticated motion-tracking cameras.”

Usage

usually refers to physical hardware rather than software interfaces.

Teaching tip

contrast this with 'output device' (like a monitor or printer) to help students understand the direction of data flow.

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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