gizmo

or gis·mo

[ giz-moh ]

noun

, Informal.

, plural giz·mos.

1. a gadget or device:

   What is this gizmo supposed to do?

gizmo

/ ˈɡɪzməʊ /

noun

1. slang.
   a device; gadget

Word History and Origins

Origin of gizmo¹

First recorded in 1940–45; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of gizmo¹

C20: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

One by one, the satellites – each of them encrusted with a hodge-podge of solar panels and other gizmos – detached from their mothership.

From BBC

These futuristic gizmos materialize for a chosen few, packed in white boxes with the recipient’s name embossed and an invitation to “play.”

From Los Angeles Times

Despite their diminutive size, the gizmos have enough computing power to perform a simple task on their own—rather than being constantly guided by external signals.

From Science Magazine

The little gizmos swim in a solution of dilute hydrogen peroxide in a shallow dish on the stage of a microscope.

From Science Magazine

We asked a trio of four-season adventurers for their best stay-warm tips, soliciting advice on everything from layering strategy to electric gizmos.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• appliance
• contraption
• device
• instrument
• tool
• widget