gadget

noun

gad·​get ˈga-jət 

: an often small mechanical or electronic device with a practical use but often thought of as a novelty

gadgetry

ˈga-jə-trē 

noun

gadgety

ˈga-jə-tē 

adjective

Synonyms of gadget

• tool
• appliance
• gizmo
• contraption
• widget
• accessory
• mechanism
• innovation

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

In March, the gadget received the PTCRB certification, which is required for every North American smartphone. —Michelle Del Rey, USA Today, 11 May 2026

Reducing screentime That sense of intention is part of the draw for 23-year-old content creator Chonnie Alfonso, who typically features retro gadgets on her YouTube channel. —Sydney Goh, CNBC, 9 May 2026

Apple also aims to address privacy concerns from people who don’t want to be filmed by gadgets — an issue for smart glasses as well. —Bloomberg, Mercury News, 8 May 2026

Retailers like Amazon and Best Buy are currently rolling out major markdowns on everything from wireless earbuds to everyday gadgets and travel-friendly finds. —ABC News, 8 May 2026

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

Rhymes for gadget

• areopagite

Kids Definition

gadget

noun

gad·​get ˈgaj-ət 

: an interesting, unfamiliar, or unusual device with a practical use

gadgetry

ˈgaj-ə-trē 

noun