end effector

noun

variants or end-effector

ˈend-i-ˈfek-tər 

-ˌtȯr

plural end effectors or end-effectors

: any of various tools that can be mounted at the end of a robotic arm and that are used to interact with or manipulate objects

Performance data on robots, Lau says, usually describe a device's ability to place its end effector at a given point and do so repeatedly at very low speeds.

—K. M. Reese

Examples of end effector in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The performance features bespoke robotic violas, harp, piano and trumpet outfitted with custom end effectors, robotic embouchures and hand-cast silicone prosthetics that calculate and execute musical gestures. — Spin Staff, SPIN, 20 July 2026

Mimic Robotics says the M1 is designed not merely as an end effector but as a sensor-rich platform for Physical AI. — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 20 July 2026

Previously, another wrist joint was replaced and both of the arm's end effectors were swapped out for spares. — Robert Z. Pearlman, Space.com, 30 June 2026

The robot’s end effector is equipped with a blade that cuts the stem and places it into a storage basket, without handling (and damaging) the fruit. — Sabbir Rangwala, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for end effector

• eigenvector
• bisector
• collector
• connector
• corrector
• defector
• deflector
• detector
• director
• dissector
• ejector
• elector