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

Once key fobs are present in new vehicles, drivers can start their engines using push-button start instead of turning a key in the ignition. — Charles Singh, USA Today, 4 Aug. 2026

There’s a push-button ignitor on the left side and a power button for the digital display on the right. — John R. Delaney, PC Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026

Noun

The handles also complement the microwave finish, and some even use a push button for the sleekest look. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 8 July 2026

The teething toys are an off-white disc shape and have a grey ball in the center with six multi-colored, silicone tentacle-looking pull strings that run through the ball and seven soft push buttons, according to a description of the product. — Kimberlee Speakman, PEOPLE, 20 June 2026

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

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