Definitions
01a timing device
A2 · Elementary Countable noun
n. a device that measures time or makes a sound when a certain amount of time has passed.
n. an instrument or mechanism used to measure time intervals or to trigger an event after a preset duration.
日本語:タイマー※
“Set the kitchen timer for ten minutes so the pasta doesn't overcook.”
“The digital timer on the laboratory equipment ensures that the chemical reaction is monitored with millisecond precision.”
Synonyms
02a person who times
B1 · Intermediate Countable noun Sports
n. a person who measures how long an event or a race takes.
n. an official or individual responsible for recording the duration of an event, particularly in competitive sports.
“The timer stood at the finish line with a stopwatch in his hand.”
“In professional swimming, the official timer must verify the electronic touchpads to ensure the recorded race times are accurate.”
Synonyms
03tenure or frequency
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Informal
n. a person who has done something for a long time or a certain number of times.
n. a person characterized by the length of their experience or the frequency of their participation, usually appearing in compounds like 'old-timer' or 'first-timer'.
“As a first-timer at the gym, he wasn't sure how to use the machines.”
“The club welcomed several first-timers to the meeting, though the old-timers still dominated the policy discussions.”
Usage
Almost always used as part of a compound noun.
Teaching tip
This sense is rarely used alone; it is most common in terms like 'old-timer' for an experienced person or 'first-timer' for a beginner.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology
From time (verb) + -er.
From time (noun) + -er (measurement suffix) or + -er (occupational suffix).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
- 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 · Elementary
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/timer
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「日本語」「カタカナ語」 data: JMdict (EDRDG), CC BY-SA 4.0