gadget

1 of 2

noun (1)

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

gadgetry

2 of 2

noun (2)

gad·​get·​ry ˈgajə̇trē 

-ri

plural -es

1

: gadgeteering

the gadgetry of science costs huge sums

—W. A. Noyes, born 1898

2

: gadgets

a world of mechanical gadgetry

—A. C. Fisher

the marvels of modern gadgetry that could reduce hard work to a minimum of effort

—James Aldredge

labor-saving gadgetry

—J. I. Rodale

Synonyms of gadget

Noun (1)

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

Examples of gadget in a Sentence

Noun (1)

The kitchen is equipped with all the latest gadgets.

cell phones, pagers, and other gadgets

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

This mini gadget is easy to set up (just insert a battery, and place it next to a water source like a sink, sump pump, water heater, or washing machine), and can last up to two years with normal use. — Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Aug. 2026

In terms of player archetype, Everhart could be considered a gadget-type player who can be used in the backfield, at slot and on special teams. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Aug. 2026

However, when current watches have just 1GB RAM and 64GB storage, Apple Watch will feel the component cost pressure less than other categories of gadget. — Andrew Williams, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026

As of August 31st, Nielsen’s co-viewing data will now include information obtained from smart-watch like gadgets that Neilsen’s research panelists wear in their homes. — Charles Pulliam-Moore, The Verge, 19 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

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

First Known Use

Noun (1)

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