push-button

1 of 2

adjective

push-but·​ton ˈpu̇sh-ˌbə-tᵊn 

1

: operated or done by means of push buttons

a push-button phone

2

: using or dependent on complex and more or less self-operating mechanisms that are put in operation by a simple act comparable to pushing a button

push-button warfare

push button

2 of 2

noun

: a small button or knob that when pushed operates something especially by closing an electric circuit

Examples of push-button in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Camaro thefts declined after the introduction of push-button start systems in 2016. —Stuart Dyos, USA Today, 18 Aug. 2025

That's a ridiculously good price for these stylish and powerful earbuds, featuring bass-forward sound that satisfies, one-touch pairing and handoff for iOS devices, and intuitive on-ear push-button controls. —PC Magazine, 8 Aug. 2025

Noun

The project will also include ADA-compliant curb ramps, new posts with pedestrian push buttons and posts, pedestrian barricades, protective railings and traffic striping. —Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Aug. 2025

The lid is designed with a push button, which also doubles as a handle, to provide the best seal. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 20 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1916, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

circa 1874, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for push-button

• unbutton
• button
• clutton
• glutton
• mutton
• witan

Kids Definition

push-button

1 of 2 adjective

1

: operated or done by means of push buttons

a push-button phone

2

: using or dependent on complicated automatic machines

push-button warfare

a push-button civilization

push button

2 of 2 noun

: a small button or knob that when pushed operates something especially by closing an electric circuit