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

• appliance
• contraption
• contrivance
• gimmick
• gizmo
• gismo
• jigger
• widget

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

The friendly-looking blue-and-white character often rescues Nobita by pulling secret gadgets from the future out of the pocket in his stomach. —Jessie Yeung, CNN, 11 Oct. 2024

Best Amazon Prime Day deals under $100: Amazon devices, smart home, and Prime Day tech deals No need to wait until Black Friday to snag some tech gadgets. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 9 Oct. 2024

Unlike traditional mosquito repellant, this little gadget does all the work for you without having to spray anything on your skin. $50 $40 at Amazon $50 at REI Need something a little more portable? —Jamie Spain, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Oct. 2024

Teeth whitening gadgets like the Colgate Whitening Pen are super helpful to give yourself a sparkling smile just in time for the holiday season! —Kasey Caminiti, USA TODAY, 8 Oct. 2024

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

Kids Definition

gadget

noun

gad·​get ˈgaj-ət 

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

gadgetry

ˈgaj-ə-trē 

noun