timer

noun

tim·​er ˈtī-mər 

: one that times: such as

a

: timepiece

especially : a stopwatch for timing races

b

: timekeeper

c

: a device (such as a clock) that indicates by a sound the end of an interval of time or that starts or stops a device at predetermined times

Synonyms

• clock

Examples of timer in a Sentence

He was the official timer for the race.

She set the timer on the oven for one hour.

The timer is set to go off in 15 minutes.

Recent Examples on the Web

Here’s the list: The MCOM timer is now reduced from 45 to 30 seconds which is supposed to create better balance between attackers and defenders. —Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2025

Invest in smart plugs, smart power strips, or timers. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Aug. 2025

There were no apps to download, no timers to set, nothing to buy. —Rheana Murray, The Atlantic, 11 Aug. 2025

Download the compatible app to control a timer, night light, and more useful features. —Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 7 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing timer

• all-timer
• egg timer
• full-timer
• old-timer
• one-timer

Rhymes for timer

• climber
• dimer
• eimer
• primer
• rhymer
• alzheimer
• heterodimer

Kids Definition

timer

noun

tim·​er ˈtī-mər 

1

a

: timepiece

b

: timekeeper sense 2

2

: a clocklike device that turns something on or off at a set time or gives a signal at the end of a period of time