Mobile device Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mobile device
[ˈmoʊbəl dɪˈvaɪs ]
Definition
technology
A mobile device is a portable electronic gadget that allows users to access the internet, make phone calls, send messages, and perform various other tasks on the go. These devices are typically small in size and easy to carry around.
Synonyms
handheld device, mobile gadget, portable device.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mobile device |
General term commonly used to refer to smartphones, tablets, and other similar devices that are portable and can connect to the internet.
|
| portable device |
Broad term that can be applied to any electronic device that is easy to carry and can be moved from one place to another. Not limited to just phones or tablets, it can include things like laptops or gaming consoles.
|
| handheld device |
Used to describe devices small enough to be held and operated with one hand, often emphasizing the convenience and portability aspect.
|
| mobile gadget |
Informal term typically used to describe small, portable tech devices that have unique features or are considered trendy. Sometimes can have a slightly less serious or juvenile connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- Many people use their mobile devices to check emails while they are on the move.
- Smartphones and tablets are popular types of mobile devices.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Technology
- Mobile devices typically use an operating system like Android or iOS, which allows users to interact with apps and services.
- As of 2021, there were over 3 billion smartphone users worldwide, highlighting the device's importance in everyday life.
Cultural Impact
- Mobile devices have transformed how people communicate, shifting interactions from face-to-face to digital formats.
- Social media apps on mobile devices have changed how we share experiences and connect with others across the globe.
Science
- Research shows that excessive mobile device use can affect mental health, leading to anxiety and social isolation in some individuals.
- Scientists have studied how constant notifications from mobile devices can impair focus and productivity.
Literature
- Many contemporary novels and essays explore the themes of disconnection and dependency influenced by mobile technology.
- Authors have depicted mobile devices as both tools of connection and isolation, depicting complex relationships with technology.
Origin of 'mobile device'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'mobile' comes from the Latin word 'mobilis,' meaning 'movable' or 'able to be moved.'
- The idea of a portable communication device gained traction in the 1970s, paving the way for modern devices.
The term 'mobile device' originated in the late 20th century with the rise of portable electronic devices. As technology advanced, mobile devices became more powerful and versatile, leading to their widespread use in modern society. The convenience and connectivity offered by mobile devices have revolutionized communication and information access.