A gadget is a small, clever device or tool, especially one that is new, unusual, or designed for a specific task. Many electronic devices people use every day are called gadgets.
“Gadget” appeared in English in the late 19th century, probably from sailors’ slang for a small mechanical part whose real name was forgotten. Its exact origin is uncertain, but it spread quickly to mean any handy little device.
Calling something a “gadget” often makes it sound fun but slightly unnecessary, like a toy for adults. Today’s gadgets—smartphones, smartwatches, earbuds—quietly hold more computing power than the machines that first sent humans to the moon.
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