gizmo
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɡˈɪzməʊ/
US
- /ˈɡɪzˌmoʊ/
Description
- small device
- gadget
- little tool
- unnamed part
A "gizmo" is a playful word for a small device, tool, or part, especially when you do not know its exact name or when it seems clever in a small way. It can be something useful, something unusual, or just a little object that helps another machine work. The word feels casual and light, so people often use it in everyday speech when talking about gadgets, bits of equipment, or odd little things around the house, the car, or the workshop.
The word "gizmo" is an informal, playful name for a small device, gadget, tool, or part. It does not point to one exact kind of object. Instead, people use it when the item is small, practical, a bit clever, or simply hard to name more exactly. A gizmo might be a separate object on its own, or it might be one small piece inside something larger.
The word often suggests that the object does something useful in a neat or slightly mysterious way. It can describe modern items, old tools, kitchen attachments, small electronic parts, or random bits of equipment. Sometimes the speaker means, "This little thing does a job, but I do not know what to call it." Other times, the speaker simply wants a light, friendly word instead of a precise technical term.
You might say, "What does this little gizmo do?" or "She bought a handy gizmo for opening jars." In both cases, the word sounds casual and natural. It is common in conversation and storytelling, but it is not usually the best choice in formal or technical writing, where a more exact name is better.
So, if you come across a small object, part, or gadget and want a simple, playful word for it, "gizmo" fits well. It carries the idea of a little thing that does a job, even if its exact name is unknown or unimportant.
Examples
- 1
Kitchen tool
I bought a cheap kitchen gizmo that slices vegetables in seconds.
Usage
gizmo
an informal word for a small device or piece of equipment
- 2
Phone accessory
The box comes with a little gizmo that connects your phone to the car.
- 3
Unknown device
Do you know what this gizmo is for?
- 4
Tech gadgets
He loves filling his desk with the latest tech gizmos.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- gizmonoun