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

It also runs substantive service journalism, like this column, by Michael J. Coren, about the threat of climate change on homeowners, with a widget that can assess the vulnerability of specific counties.

From Slate

A future version of the Dataland website will include access to the Large Nature Model for educational and research purposes, and a widget will track in real time how much energy is being used.

From Los Angeles Times

Signed agreements with phone-makers required that Google Chrome, the Google Search Widget, and the Play Store for apps come preloaded, as internal research led them to believe that users would be dissuaded from using Google otherwise.

From Slate

It’s perfect for tiny screws, fasteners, electronic parts, colorful beads or any other small part or widget you might use in your hobby or craft.

From Seattle Times

Using verified Bible program such as Logos Bible Software allows users to determine an actual scholar created the content they’re reading: “This isn’t some bot or widget somewhere, trying to tell me what this passage means in Scripture,” he said.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• gizmo