gadget
8 synonyms for gadget, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A small mechanical or electronic device, especially a clever or useful one.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use gadget
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
tech gadget
kitchen gadget
handy gadget
Etymology
Origin unclear, first recorded in print in 1886; possibly linked to a French word for a small tool, or to the surname of a French industrialist connected with promotional trinkets for the Statue of Liberty project.
Full origin of gadget →Frequently asked questions
What does “gadget” mean?
The word “gadget” means a small mechanical or electronic device, especially a clever or useful one. In plain terms, a small device, especially a clever or novelty one — often electronic.
How do you pronounce “gadget”?
“Gadget” is pronounced gaj-iht (/ɡæd͡ʒ.ɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “gadget” in a sentence?
Here is “gadget” used in a sentence: “He collects kitchen gadgets he barely ever uses.”
What is another word for “gadget”?
Words with a similar meaning to “gadget” include contraption, contrivance, doohickey, gizmo and widget.
What part of speech is “gadget”?
“Gadget” is a noun.
Where does the word “gadget” come from?
The word “gadget” dates back to around 1886 and comes from French. Origin unclear, first recorded in print in 1886; possibly linked to a French word for a small tool, or to the surname of a French industrialist connected with promotional trinkets for the Statue of Liberty project.
Is “gadget” a common word?
“Gadget” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “gadget” have?
“Gadget” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a small mechanical or electronic device, especially a clever or useful one.
