Timer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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timer
[ˈtaɪmər ]
Definitions
kitchen
A device used for measuring time intervals, typically consisting of a glass container filled with sand that takes an hour to pass through a narrow opening.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The timer on the oven beeped, indicating that the cookies were ready.
- She set the timer for 20 minutes and went back to work.
- The timer ran out, and the pasta was perfectly al dente.
- I always forget to set the timer when boiling eggs.
- The timer is an essential tool for cooking and baking.
electronics
A device or part of a device that controls the operation of another device at predetermined times.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The timer on the coffee maker allows you to wake up to freshly brewed coffee.
- She programmed the timer on the heater to turn on before she arrived home.
- I use the timer function on the TV to switch it off automatically at night.
- The timer can be set to turn the lights on and off while you're away.
- Make sure to check the timer settings on the air conditioner.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Technology
- The introduction of digital timers in the 1970s revolutionized how we track and manage time, leading to advanced features like countdowns and alarms.
- Modern timers are often integrated into smartphones and computers, allowing for multifunctional uses beyond traditional cooking or workouts.
- Timers are essential in various fields, including cooking, photography, sports, and scientific experiments, for precise timing.
Science
- Timers are crucial in experiments where precise timing affects results, such as in chemical reactions or physics experiments.
- In psychology studies, timers are often used to measure reaction times, revealing insights about human cognition and reflexes.
- Studies show that managing time effectively can lead to increased productivity and improved performance in various activities.
Education
- In classrooms, timers help manage activities, encouraging students to stay focused and enhancing their time management skills.
- Using timers during tests or quizzes can create a sense of urgency, influencing how students approach problem-solving.
- Educators often apply timers in play-based learning to create structured and engaging learning environments.
Cultural Significance
- Timers symbolize the value of time, often reminding people to make the most of every moment in their lives.
- In many cultures, practices involving timers reflect beliefs about pacing activities, such as cooking or prayer, emphasizing patience and intention.
- The countdown timer has become a popular symbol in various media, representing suspense and the pressure to accomplish tasks quickly.
Origin of 'timer'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'timer' comes from the verb 'time,' which means to measure the period of an event.
- The suffix '-er' indicates a person or thing that performs an action, thus a timer is something that measures time.
- The term has roots in the late 19th century, becoming more commonly used with the development of technology in timekeeping.
The word 'timer' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the word 'time' with the suffix '-er,' which denotes a person or thing that performs a specified action. The concept of measuring time intervals has been essential throughout history, leading to the development of various timing devices. From the ancient sundials to the modern digital timers, the evolution of timekeeping tools has revolutionized human activities and productivity.
See also: overtime, sometimes, time, timeframe, timekeeper, timeless, timeline, timeliness, timely, timepiece, times, timetable, timetabling, timeworn, timing, untimely.