gadget

noun

gad·​get ˈga-jət How to pronounce gadget (audio)
Synonyms of gadget
: an often small mechanical or electronic device with a practical use but often thought of as a novelty
gadgetry noun
gadgety adjective

Examples of gadget in a Sentence

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.
Best Amazon Prime Day Outlet Home Deals Everything from luxurious bedding to clever cleaning gadgets is marked down in Amazon’s home section today. Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 22 June 2026 Rather than acting as a traditional instrument, Enya is pitching it as a highly portable smart music gadget for casual gatherings and campfires. New Atlas, 21 June 2026 The story follows Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie and crew as their owner Bonnie becomes addicted to her new favorite gadget, a kiddie smart tablet known as Lilypad. Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 21 June 2026 An engineering prodigy, Harley has to get creative to survive her large family, and invents a number of gizmos and gadgets to help improve her chaotic household. Christian Holub, Entertainment Weekly, 21 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for gadget

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gadget was in 1886

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gadget.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gadget. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

gadget

noun
gad·​get ˈgaj-ət How to pronounce gadget (audio)
: an interesting, unfamiliar, or unusual device with a practical use
gadgetry noun

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