English Reference

Word

printer

Phoneticsprint·er, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈpɹɪnɝ/

UK/pɹˈɪntɐ/

Definitions

01computer hardware

A2 · Elementary Countable noun Computing

n. a machine connected to a computer that prints text or images onto paper.

n. a peripheral device that produces a hard copy of documents or images stored in electronic form, usually on paper.

“I need to buy more ink because the printer is running out.”

“The office upgraded to a high-speed laser printer to handle the increased volume of marketing reports required for the quarterly review.”

Usage

Countable noun; often used with 'ink', 'toner', or 'paper'.

Synonyms

output device

Antonyms

scanner

02a person or business

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. a person or a company that prints books, magazines, or newspapers.

n. a person or commercial entity whose occupation or business is the production of printed material.

“The author sent the final version of the book to the printer.”

“After the layout was finalised, the publisher contacted a local printer to discuss the costs of a five-thousand-copy print run.”

Usage

Can refer to the individual worker or the entire company metonymically.

Synonyms

publisherpressman

033D manufacturing

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Technology Technical

n. a machine that can create solid, three-dimensional objects from a digital design.

n. a device used in additive manufacturing to create three-dimensional objects by laying down successive layers of material.

“The engineer used a 3D printer to make a plastic model of the new car.”

“Advancements in medical technology now allow researchers to use a specialised printer to create biocompatible scaffolds for tissue engineering.”

Synonyms

3D printer

Word family

NOUN

printer(A2)

Domains

HardwarePrinting

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.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL 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: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Frequent
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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