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

For more of home-hack gadgets that save time and energy, check out the rest of our under-$15 finds below. —Christina Shepherd McGuire, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Feb. 2025

Ideal for remote workers, home office users, and families with multiple gadgets, this charging station keeps workspaces clutter-free while ensuring all devices remain powered throughout the day. —Hilary Tetenbaum, USA TODAY, 1 Feb. 2025

Todd Haselton is a deputy editor with 18 years of experience writing and editing product reviews, gadgets and business news. —Todd Haselton, The Verge, 28 Jan. 2025

Eventually, Richard plans to add other gadgets like gravity bongs and dab rigs, which are used for smoking concentrates, to the menu. —Tiney Ricciardi, The Denver Post, 27 Jan. 2025

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