actuator

noun

ac·​tu·​a·​tor ˈak-chə-ˌwā-tər How to pronounce actuator (audio)
-shə-
Synonyms of actuatornext
: one that actuates
specifically : a mechanical device for moving or controlling something

Examples of actuator in a Sentence

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.
Beijing, however, holds counter-leverage through its dominance of the rare earths used in humanoid actuators and motors, Wang said. — Anniek Bao, CNBC, 26 Aug. 2026 As starlight streams through the telescope, those actuators subtly reshape the mirrors in real time, correcting for imperfections in the telescope's optics smaller than the width of a strand of DNA. — Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 26 Aug. 2026 Rare earth metals come to mind, magnets come to mind, and all the gears and actuators and chips and so forth. — John Koetsier, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026 Called Supertorquer, the device is expected to become the most powerful magnetic actuator ever flown. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for actuator

Word History

Etymology

actuate + -or entry 1

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of actuator was in 1652

Rhymes for actuator

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Browse Nearby Words

actuation
actuator
act up
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Actuator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/actuator. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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