waldo
n. countablen. a remote-controlled mechanical arm or tool that mimics the movements of a human operator. You use this when you need to handle dangerous materials or work in tight spaces from a distance.
n. a remote-controlled mechanical device, such as a robotic arm, that replicates the precise movements of a human hand or limb. Named after a 1942 science fiction story, it is now a standard term in robotics and nuclear engineering.
The technician uses a waldo to handle the radioactive samples.
By manipulating the master controls, the surgeon can guide the waldo with extreme precision during the procedure.
The development of the waldo allowed researchers to interact with hazardous environments from behind lead-shielded glass, translating human dexterity into mechanical action without exposing the operator to radiation.
Often used in technical or science fiction contexts; frequently lowercase, though occasionally capitalized in reference to its literary origin.