joystick

noun

joy·​stick ˈjȯi-ˌstik 

1

: a lever in an airplane that operates the elevators by a fore-and-aft motion and the ailerons by a side-to-side motion

2

: a control for any of various devices (such as a computer) that resembles an airplane's joystick especially in being capable of motion in two or more directions

Examples of joystick in a Sentence

This game works with either a mouse or joystick.

Recent Examples on the Web

Other upgrades include Starlink high-speed broadband, NACS fast charging, joystick control, and software that allows an owner to manage features from a smartphone. — Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 16 June 2026

Lenovo's classic keyboard and TrackPoint (the trademark red nub that works as a joystick-like pointer controller) are as good as ever. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 15 June 2026

The controller features a joystick, multiple buttons, and USB-C connectivity for both power and communication. — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 9 June 2026

Sena has updated its conventional three-button interface with a new glove‑friendly layout that’s built around a central joystick. — Utkarsh Sood june 07, New Atlas, 7 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from English slang joystick penis

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for joystick

• broomstick
• dipstick
• homesick
• lipstick
• nonstick
• pickwick
• picnic
• redbrick
• seasick
• sidekick
• slapstick
• toothpick

Kids Definition

joystick

noun

joy·​stick -ˌstik 

: a control lever for a device (as a computer display or an airplane) that allows motion in two or more directions