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

Our enclosures, our frames, are push-button connect, color coded, and very simple to put together. —Scott Kramer, Forbes, 13 Oct. 2024

Not quite as extreme is the console series of braking and reversing levers combined with a push-button starter. —James Raia, The Mercury News, 6 Oct. 2024

Noun

Indeed, like so many other contests this postseason, Game 6 would require Roberts to push buttons and pull levers with his patchwork pitching staff, having nothing but relievers available to cover nine season-defining innings. —Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 24 Oct. 2024

The stainless steel bristles are covered with rubber tips for your pet’s comfort, and there’s a push button to expel the hair from the brush for easy cleaning. —Madison Yauger, People.com, 7 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1916, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

circa 1874, in the meaning defined above

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