Zapper: meaning, definitions and examples

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zapper

 

[หˆzรฆpษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

electronic devices

A zapper is a handheld electronic device used to kill insects by emitting an electric shock.

Synonyms

bug zapper, insect killer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
zapper

This is a repeat of the first term. It also can refer to a general electric device that deactivates or kills, or be used in broader scenarios. The context in which it is used determines its specific meaning.

  • The remote control acts as a zapper for changing channels on the TV.
  • The new security system includes a zapper for quickly disabling intruders.
insect killer

This term explicitly describes a product or substance designed to kill insects. It can refer to various forms, including sprays, electric devices, or traps. 'Insect killer' often appears on product labels and in advertisements.

  • I bought an insect killer spray to deal with the ants in the kitchen.
  • This electric insect killer is effective for keeping flies out of the house.
bug zapper

Specifically refers to a device designed to attract and kill insects, usually by using ultraviolet light and an electric grid. It is commonly used in outdoor spaces during warmer seasons.

  • We set up a bug zapper on the patio to keep the mosquitoes away during our BBQ.
  • The buzzing noise from the bug zapper means it's working well.

Examples of usage

  • The zapper is effective at getting rid of mosquitoes in the house.
  • She used a zapper to zap the flies in the kitchen.
Context #2 | Noun

TV remote control

Informal term for a remote control, especially for a TV.

Synonyms

clicker, remote control.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
zapper

Typically used informally or humorously to refer to a remote control device, especially in the context of quickly switching TV channels.

  • Pass me the zapper, I want to change the channel
remote control

The most formal and technically correct term for a device used to control electronic appliances from a distance. Suitable for official, instructional, or technical contexts.

  • The remote control is on the coffee table
  • Please use it to turn on the TV
clicker

Commonly used in casual conversation to refer to a remote control, particularly in North American English. It suggests familiarity and ease of use.

  • Where did you leave the clicker? I can't find it

Examples of usage

  • Pass me the zapper, I want to change the channel.
  • He couldn't find the zapper to turn up the volume.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the term 'zap,' which means to strike or hit suddenly, often used in sound effects.
  • Initially associated with electronic devices, the term has evolved in modern usage to include any gadget that delivers a quick effect, like a remote control.

Technology

  • Zapper devices can function as remote controls, allowing users to easily switch channels on televisions without moving.
  • In pest control, bug zappers use ultraviolet light to attract insects and an electric grid to eliminate them, demonstrating the term's adaptable meaning.
  • Gamers also use zapper-like accessories to enhance gameplay, showcasing their connection to interactive technologies.

Pop Culture

  • In the 1980s, a popular gaming accessory called the 'Zapper' was released for the Nintendo Entertainment System, allowing players to shoot at the screen.
  • Various superhero and sci-fi shows feature zappers as powerful weapons or gadgets that can eliminate threats instantly.

Science

  • The concept of zapping is often used in physics to describe the process of rapidly energizing particles or molecules to study their properties.
  • Research in neuroscience explores how certain zapping techniques, like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), can influence brain activity.

Literature

  • Zappers are often symbolically used in literary works to represent quick change or transformation, illustrating the impact of technology on society.
  • In children's literature, zappers embody the excitement of magical tools that allow characters to overcome challenges swiftly.

Translations

Translations of the word "zapper" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น destruidor

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคœเคผเฅˆเคชเคฐ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Vernichter

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ penghancur

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะทะฝะธั‰ัƒะฒะฐั‡

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ niszczyciel

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ็ ดๅฃŠ่€… (ใฏใ‹ใ„ใ—ใ‚ƒ)

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท destructeur

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ destructor

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท yok edici

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ํŒŒ๊ดด์ž

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู…ุฏู…ุฑ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ niฤitel

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ niฤiteฤพ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ็ ดๅ่€… (pรฒhuร izhฤ›)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ uniฤevalec

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ eyรฐileggjandi

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะถะพะนา“ั‹ัˆ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ’แƒแƒ›แƒแƒœแƒแƒ“แƒ’แƒฃแƒ แƒ”แƒ‘แƒ”แƒšแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ mษ™hv edษ™n

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ destructor