actuator
noun
ac·tu·a·tor
ˈak-chə-ˌwā-tər 
-shə-
: one that actuates
specifically
: a mechanical device for moving or controlling something
Examples of actuator in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
If simple, prefabricated asymmetric carbon fibers can act as tiny actuators, engineers may not need complicated coatings or redesigns to build micro-scale devices.
—
Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 14 Feb. 2026
In operation, the actuator compresses and holds the Ni-Ti tubes, causing the material to heat up.
—IEEE Spectrum, 5 Feb. 2026
Parts of its limbs are connected horizontally at the joints with actuators — which make the parts move — giving it a clunkier feel than other robots whose arms and legs extend linearly from their bodies.
—Rachyl Jones, semafor.com, 4 Feb. 2026
The mines are placed on the vessel’s deck, which includes mechanical actuators that release them into the water.
—Vikram Mittal, Forbes.com, 19 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for actuator
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Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 14 Feb. 2026
In operation, the actuator compresses and holds the Ni-Ti tubes, causing the material to heat up.
—IEEE Spectrum, 5 Feb. 2026
Parts of its limbs are connected horizontally at the joints with actuators — which make the parts move — giving it a clunkier feel than other robots whose arms and legs extend linearly from their bodies.
—Rachyl Jones, semafor.com, 4 Feb. 2026
The mines are placed on the vessel’s deck, which includes mechanical actuators that release them into the water.
—Vikram Mittal, Forbes.com, 19 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for actuator
Cite this Entry
“Actuator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/actuator. Accessed 20 Feb. 2026.
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