device

A small machine or tool made to do a particular job.

• This device measures your temperature.
• She bought a device for opening jars.
• Do these devices need batteries?

Similar words: tool, gadget, machine

Common phrases: small device, medical device, use a device, electrical device

A piece of equipment connected to a computer, such as a mouse or printer.

• Connect the device to your computer.
• The printer appears in the list of devices.
• Which input device do you use?

Similar words: peripheral

Common phrases: input device, output device, connect a device

A clever method used to achieve something or create a particular effect.

• The writer uses humor as a device.
• Letters are a useful device for telling this story.
• The same dramatic device appears in several plays.

Similar words: technique, method, stratagem

Common phrases: literary device, narrative device, clever device

A picture or symbol used to represent a person, family, or organization.

• A lion was the family device.
• The shield bears a device shaped like a star.
• These ancient devices appeared on royal seals.

Similar words: emblem, symbol

Common phrases: heraldic device, family device, a device depicting