cordless
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈɔːdləs/
US
- /ˈkɔrdləs/
Description
- Without a cord
- battery-powered
- portable
Imagine an old telephone—it was tethered to the wall by a curly cord! Now think about modern tools and gadgets. If something is cordless, it means you can use it without a cord attached. Most of the time, it runs on a battery, so you don't have to stay plugged into an outlet while you use it. You might describe your vacuum cleaner as cordless if you can move around the house without constantly plugging and unplugging it. This kind of design has changed how we live, giving us more freedom to move.
The word cordless describes something designed to be used without a cord attached—most often a power cord. It suggests freedom from physical constraints and emphasizes portability and convenience. While the term gained popularity with the advent of cordless landline phones (where the handset isn't attached by a cord), it now applies to a wide range of modern devices.
A cordless drill lets you work anywhere, not just near an electrical outlet. Cordless headphones or earbuds let you move freely while listening to music. Even many household appliances, like vacuum cleaners and toothbrushes, are now cordless. In most instances, the term implies that the device is powered by an internal, rechargeable battery.
However, cordless isn't always about electricity. It can also describe items that lack a physical string or pull-cord—like "cordless blinds," which are operated by hand to remove the clutter and safety hazards associated with dangling strings.
The increasing popularity of cordless technology reflects our desire for convenience and mobility. We live in a world where we want to be able to do things anywhere, and cordless devices help us achieve that freedom. So, next time you see something operating without a tether, remember it's all about cutting the ties and embracing a more mobile lifestyle!
Examples
- 1
Home phone
We bought a cordless phone for the kitchen.
- 2
Power tools
A cordless drill makes it much easier to hang shelves.
- 3
Headphones
Are these headphones cordless, or do they come with a cable too?
- 4
Cleaning
She prefers a cordless vacuum for quick cleanups.
- 5
Home office
More people are going cordless in their home offices.
Phrase
go cordless
start using devices without cords
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- cordlessadjective