always-on

adjective

al·​ways-on ˈȯl-wēz-ˈȯn How to pronounce always-on (audio)
-ˈän
-wəz-
-(ˌ)wāz-
also ˈȯ-
: always active, operating, or powered
an always-on Internet connection
When a power shortage occurs and electricity costs rise, the always-on devices scattered throughout … your facility consume increasingly expensive power.Gilbert Held

Examples of always-on 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.
An always-on environment can lead to burnout. Orlando Sentinel, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 Mar. 2026 An always-on environment can lead to burnout. Editorial, Boston Herald, 16 Mar. 2026 An always-on environment can lead to burnout. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 10 Mar. 2026 All three panels support an always-on mode and reach up to 2,600 nits in brightness. Iyaz Akhtar, PC Magazine, 5 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for always-on

Word History

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of always-on was in 1976

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Cite this Entry

“Always-on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/always-on. Accessed 26 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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