gadget

noun

gad·​get ˈga-jət How to pronounce gadget (audio)
: 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.
Ukraine has deployed drones by the millions, turning what began as a battle of tanks and artillery into a high-tech proving ground for the world’s deadliest gadgets. Simon Shuster, Time, 24 Sep. 2025 Hosted by editor-at-large David Pierce, the show will take a look each week at the historical implications of a gadget, app, website, or product from consumer technology’s past. Max Tani, semafor.com, 22 Sep. 2025 Your new router can support it, but most of the gadgets in your house today — laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and game consoles — are still using Wi-Fi 5 or 6. Ken Colburn, AZCentral.com, 22 Sep. 2025 The Razer Huntsman Mini is a super cool gadget to have. Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 22 Sep. 2025 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 29 Sep. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on gadget

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