widget

[ wij-it ]

noun

1. a small mechanical device, as a knob or switch, especially one whose name is not known or cannot be recalled; gadget:

   a row of widgets on the instrument panel.

2. something considered typical or representative, as of a manufacturer's products:

   the widgets coming off the assembly line.

3. Digital Technology. a module on a website, in an application, or in the interface of a device that allows users to access information or perform a function:

   I added a weather widget to my screen.

widget

/ ˈwɪdʒɪt /

noun

1. informal.
   any small mechanism or device, the name of which is unknown or temporarily forgotten
2. a small device in a beer can which, when the can is opened, releases nitrogen gas into the beer, giving it a head
3. a small computer program that can be installed on and executed from the desktop of a personal computer

Word History and Origins

Origin of widget¹

First recorded in 1925–30; perhaps alteration of gadget

Word History and Origins

Origin of widget¹

C20: changed from gadget

Example Sentences

Tap this to see all the available widgets from the apps you currently have—you can then tap and swipe to choose the widget you’d like to add, and then either tap and drag it, or pick Add Widget to drop it into place.

From Popular-Science

Finally, we spoke about how Google’s stance on links have changed, including widget links.

From Search Engine Land

Currently the list includes first-party apps like Calendar, Weather and Podcasts, along with additional widgets available via the App Store.

From TechCrunch

Launch Center Pro, an iOS utility that offered widgets and custom icons long before they were allowed on the iPhone’s home screen, is bringing its design tools to iOS 14.

From TechCrunch

You can do this by sending out a survey or investing in a widget that builds feedback into the newsletter interface.

From Search Engine Watch

The Dazeem sensation arguably hit its peak with the Slate Adele Dazeem Name Generator, a widget designed to Travoltify any name.

From The Daily Beast

In the fundraising business, if you make a better widget, your competitors will try to make an even better widget.

From The Daily Beast

Alternatively, stick right here and follow the chat in the widget below.

From The Daily Beast

Related Words

• gizmo