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

Her advice is still spot on today, though the method has evolved with modern gadgets to help out. —Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 July 2024

Daylight wants to be more of a lifestyle brand than a gadget maker. —David Pierce, The Verge, 20 July 2024

Sonix x Hello Kitty Sonix’s 50th Anniversary collection features accessories and gadgets for your electronics, including phone cases, Airpods Max covers and magnetic chargers. —Erin Lassner, The Hollywood Reporter, 19 July 2024

Researchers have also developed sauté stations and deep fryers, among other kitchen gadgets, adapted for microgravity. —Andrew Chapman, Scientific American, 18 July 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