Timer: meaning, definitions and examples

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timer

 

[ ˈtaɪmər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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

clock, hourglass, stopwatch

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.
Context #2 | Noun

electronics

A device or part of a device that controls the operation of another device at predetermined times.

Synonyms

clock, controller, scheduler

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

Translations of the word "timer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 temporizador

🇮🇳 टाइमर

🇩🇪 Timer

🇮🇩 pengatur waktu

🇺🇦 таймер

🇵🇱 timer

🇯🇵 タイマー

🇫🇷 minuteur

🇪🇸 temporizador

🇹🇷 zamanlayıcı

🇰🇷 타이머

🇸🇦 مؤقت

🇨🇿 časovač

🇸🇰 časovač

🇨🇳 计时器

🇸🇮 časomer

🇮🇸 tímar

🇰🇿 таймер

🇬🇪 ტაიმერი

🇦🇿 taymer

🇲🇽 temporizador

Word origin

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.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,977, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.