dongle

[ dong-guhl, dawng‑ ]

noun

, Digital Technology.

1. a hardware device, paired with a licensed copy of a software program, that must be plugged into a computer to authorize every use of the software:

   an antipiracy dongle.

2. a device that can be plugged into a hardware port on a computer, television, or other electronic device, to enable access when connecting devices to peripherals, to the internet, or to each other: an HDMI dongle with television apps;

   a USB dongle for wireless internet access;

   an HDMI dongle with television apps;

   a display port dongle to connect the laptop to the projector.

dongle

/ ˈdɒŋɡəl /

noun

1. computing an electronic device that accompanies a software item to prevent the unauthorized copying of programs

Word History and Origins

Origin of dongle¹

First recorded in 1980–85; probably an arbitrary coinage

Example Sentences

Dual wireless connectivity adds to the functionality, for example chatting on a phone call with a Bluetooth smartphone connection and using the dongle at the same time for game audio.

From Washington Times

For the Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch and PC, a player uses the included UBC-A dongle to plug right in the consoles.

From Washington Times

The dock block can also embed the dongle to make it a charging and connectivity point.

From Washington Times

The 900 Max HX offers dual-mode wireless connectivity through both 2.4GHz lag-free USB-A dongle and Bluetooth 5.1.

From Washington Times

The controller uses dual wireless and wired connectivity to consoles controlled via onboard selector switches, a USB-A dongle and a 10-foot USB-A to USB-C cable.

From Washington Times