Zapper: meaning, definitions and examples

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zapper

[ ˈzæpər ]

Noun

^{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?

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.

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?

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

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "zapper" in other languages:

🇵🇹 destruidor

🇮🇳 ज़ैपर

🇩🇪 Vernichter

🇮🇩 penghancur

🇺🇦 знищувач

🇵🇱 niszczyciel

🇯🇵 破壊者 (はかいしゃ)

🇫🇷 destructeur

🇪🇸 destructor

🇹🇷 yok edici

🇰🇷 파괴자

🇸🇦 مدمر

🇨🇿 ničitel

🇸🇰 ničiteľ

🇨🇳 破坏者 (pòhuàizhě)

🇸🇮 uničevalec

🇮🇸 eyðileggjandi

🇰🇿 жойғыш

🇬🇪 გამანადგურებელი

🇦🇿 məhv edən

🇲🇽 destructor

Etymology

The word 'zapper' originated in the late 20th century as a slang term for an electronic device that emits a sudden burst of energy or power. It is derived from the verb 'zap,' meaning to strike or kill with a sudden blow. The term became popular in the context of insect-killing devices that use electric shocks to eliminate pests. Over time, 'zapper' also came to be used informally for TV remote controls, reflecting the idea of swiftly changing channels or settings with a quick action.