wiper

[ wahy-per ]

noun

1. a person or thing that wipes.
2. the thing with which something is wiped, as a towel, handkerchief, or squeegee.
3. windshield wiper.
4. Electricity. the portion of a selector or other similar device that makes contact with the terminals of a bank.
5. Also Machinery. a projection or partial cam, as on a rotating shaft, moving to lift or dislodge another part, especially so as to let it drop when released.

wiper

/ ˈwaɪpə /

noun

1. any piece of cloth, such as a handkerchief, towel, etc, used for wiping
2. a cam rotated to ease a part and allow it to fall under its own weight, as used in stamping machines, etc
3. See windscreen wiper
4. electrical engineering a movable conducting arm, esp one in a switching or selecting device, that makes contact with a row or ring of contacts

Word History and Origins

Origin of wiper¹

First recorded in 1545–50; wipe + -er ¹

Example Sentences

There is only the rhythmic idling of the car’s engine and the occasional sound of windshield wipers to evoke a beating heart.

From Salon

Owners also received a letter from the traffic safety agency within the same month that warned that the Cybertruck’s windshield wiper motor was failing.

From Los Angeles Times

Tesla is recalling its futuristic new Cybertruck pickup for the fourth time in the U.S. to fix problems with trim pieces that can come loose and failing front windshield wipers.

From Los Angeles Times

For instance, the Seagull has only one windshield wiper, eliminating one motor and one arm, saving on weight, cost and labor to install.

From Seattle Times

For instance, the Seagull has only one windshield wiper, eliminating one motor and one arm, saving on weight, cost and labor to install.

From Seattle Times