Cordless: meaning, definitions and examples

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cordless

 

[ ˈkɔːrdləs ]

Adjective / Adverb
Context #1 | Adjective

power tools

Operating without a cord or cable; using batteries or other means of power storage.

Synonyms

battery-powered, portable, wireless.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cordless

Used to describe devices that do not need to be plugged into an electric outlet; often used for tools or gadgets.

  • A cordless drill is very convenient for tight spaces.
  • She prefers a cordless phone because it is easier to move around.
wireless

Primarily describes devices that connect without wires, especially in the context of networking and communication, such as internet connectivity or headphones.

  • Wireless headphones are convenient because they don't have annoying cords.
  • He set up a wireless internet network in his home.
portable

Used for items that are easy to move or carry, regardless of how they are powered. Emphasizes the ease of transportation.

  • This portable speaker is perfect for outdoor parties.
  • She uses a portable charger to keep her phone powered while traveling.
battery-powered

Specifically highlights that the device operates using batteries. Commonly used for toys, small appliances, or portable tools.

  • The battery-powered toy car ran out of juice quickly.
  • He bought a battery-powered fan for camping trips.

Examples of usage

  • The cordless drill is much more convenient to use than the corded one.
  • She prefers the cordless vacuum cleaner for its ease of use.
Context #2 | Adverb

communication

Without the use of a cord or cable; using wireless technology for communication.

Synonyms

wirelessly, without cords.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cordless

When describing electronic devices or tools that operate without needing to be plugged into a power outlet via a cable.

  • She bought a cordless drill for her DIY projects
  • His new cordless headphones are very convenient for travel
wirelessly

When focusing on the connection or communication aspect of devices that do not require physical cables to transfer data or signals.

  • The printer connects wirelessly to all our computers
  • They streamed the movie wirelessly to the TV
without cords

When describing a situation or device in very basic terms, emphasizing the absence of cords without specifying the nature of the connection or operation.

  • She prefers gadgets without cords to keep her desk tidy
  • Their office aims to transition to more devices without cords to improve mobility

Examples of usage

  • They communicate cordlessly through the latest technology.
  • He prefers to work cordlessly to avoid clutter.

Translations

Translations of the word "cordless" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sem fio

🇮🇳 बिना तार का

🇩🇪 kabellos

🇮🇩 nirkabel

🇺🇦 бездротовий

🇵🇱 bezprzewodowy

🇯🇵 コードレス (koodoresu)

🇫🇷 sans fil

🇪🇸 inalámbrico

🇹🇷 kablosuz

🇰🇷 무선의 (museon-ui)

🇸🇦 بلا سلك

🇨🇿 bezdrátový

🇸🇰 bezdrôtový

🇨🇳 无线 (wúxiàn)

🇸🇮 brezžični

🇮🇸 þráðlaus

🇰🇿 сымсыз

🇬🇪 უსადენო

🇦🇿 simli

🇲🇽 inalámbrico

Etymology

The word 'cordless' originated in the mid-20th century, combining 'cord' and the suffix '-less' to indicate 'without a cord'. The term became popular with the introduction of cordless devices and tools that operated on batteries or other power sources, eliminating the need for cords or cables. The convenience and portability of cordless technology have made it widely used in various industries and everyday life.

See also: concord, cord, cordial, cords.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,644, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.