# joystick

/ˈdʒɔɪˌstɪk/ (US) · /dʒˈɔɪstɪk/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/joystick
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a handle that you move in different directions to control a computer game or a machine. It usually has buttons on it to perform specific actions.

For teachers: a control device consisting of a handheld stick that pivots on a base to transmit its angle or direction to the device it is controlling. Frequently used in gaming and aviation contexts.

## Examples

- He moved the joystick to the left to steer the plane.
- Modern flight simulators use a high-precision joystick to mimic the feel of a real cockpit control system.
- The operator carefully manipulated the joystick to guide the robotic arm through the narrow opening in the reactor wall.

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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.