zapper

noun

zap·​per ˈza-pər How to pronounce zapper (audio)
: one that zaps: such as
a
: an electronic device designed to attract and kill insects
b
: a person who habitually changes channels (as to avoid commercials)
c
: a remote control device used for zapping

Examples of zapper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Once the insect is nearby, the traps kill or contain the mosquito through different methods: a zapper, sticky trap, or a vacuum. Kate Oczypok, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Oct. 2023 However, zappers lack selectivity, electrocuting mosquitoes, butterflies and fingers alike, Buddiga said. Sydney Maki, Sacramento Bee, 31 Jan. 2024 On the side of technology, electric bug zappers offer another solution for buzzing pests. Sydney Maki, Sacramento Bee, 31 Jan. 2024 Some zapper traps are designed to hang, while others are placed on the floor. Rachel Ahrnsen, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Oct. 2023 While zappers don’t use chemicals, electric shock might be a concern. Rachel Ahrnsen, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Oct. 2023 Many of those biohackers constructed their own brain zappers from 9-volt batteries and simple circuits for as little as US $10. IEEE Spectrum, 21 Jan. 2015 From bug zappers to dish soap, farmers and gardeners have drummed up all kinds of solutions for plant-munching pests. Leia Larsen, The Salt Lake Tribune, 3 Aug. 2023 Customers say this zapper works well, but its cord is too short at nine inches. Kevin Cortez, Popular Mechanics, 28 June 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'zapper.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of zapper was in 1969

Dictionary Entries Near zapper

Cite this Entry

“Zapper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zapper. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

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