Synonyms of gadget
: an often small mechanical or electronic device with a practical use but often thought of as a novelty
: a person who makes or is fond of gadgets
Like Loomis, he was a compulsive tinkerer and inventor whose curiosity knew no bounds. That Loomis was a lifelong gadgeteer and largely self-taught naturally appealed to Wood.Jennet Conant

Examples of gadget in a Sentence

Noun (1) 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.
Noun
This mini gadget is easy to set up (just insert a battery, and place it next to a water source like a sink, sump pump, water heater, or washing machine), and can last up to two years with normal use. Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Aug. 2026 In terms of player archetype, Everhart could be considered a gadget-type player who can be used in the backfield, at slot and on special teams. Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Aug. 2026
Noun
Equally ingenious, it must be said, are the many ways Facebook and Instagram gadgeteers have of disappointing. airmail.news, 7 Dec. 2024 Eventually, Stripe and a colleague stumble across some artifacts from the show’s main era, like the parasol carried by gadgeteer Penance Adair (Ann Skelly), and the link to the main storyline is made clear. Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 17 May 2021 See All Example Sentences for gadget

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

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

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1886, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1929, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gadget was in 1886

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Cite this Entry

“Gadget.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gadget. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

: an interesting, unfamiliar, or unusual device with a practical use
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