gadget

noun

gad·​get ˈga-jət How to pronounce gadget (audio)
Synonyms of gadget
: an often small mechanical or electronic device with a practical use but often thought of as a novelty
gadgetry
ˈga-jə-trē How to pronounce gadget (audio)
noun
gadgety
ˈga-jə-tē How to pronounce gadget (audio)
adjective

Synonyms of gadget

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Examples of gadget in a Sentence

The kitchen is equipped with all the latest gadgets. cell phones, pagers, and other gadgets
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For lightweight or rarely used gadget accessories and small parts, consider using the back of your cabinet doors. — Ashley Chalmers, The Spruce, 28 Oct. 2026 From massage guns and red light therapy panels to LED face masks and lymphatic drainage devices, consumers today can choose from hundreds of wellness gadgets promising to address every bodily concern, at every budget. — Amy O’Brien, Vogue, 27 Oct. 2026 From time-saving kitchen gadgets and food warmers to festive serving platters, Thanksgiving table decorations and clever ways to store leftovers, there are plenty of products that can help make the holiday feel a little less stressful. — ABC News, 22 Oct. 2026 The power of each port (four USB-C, one USB-A) varies depending on how many gadgets are plugged in, up to 160W total. — Cameron Faulkner, The Verge, 21 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for gadget

Word History

Etymology

perhaps a sound-symbolic coinage, with final as in fidget entry 1, midget, idjit (nonstandard form of idiot)

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gadget was in 1886

Rhymes for gadget

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Browse Nearby Words

gadge
gadget
gadgeteer
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Cite this Entry

“Gadget.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gadget. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

gadget

noun
gad·​get ˈgaj-ət How to pronounce gadget (audio)
: an interesting, unfamiliar, or unusual device with a practical use
gadgetry
ˈgaj-ə-trē How to pronounce gadget (audio)
noun
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