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actuator

American  
[ak-choo-ey-ter] / ˈæk tʃuˌeɪ tər /

noun

  1. a person or thing that actuates.

  2. a servomechanism that supplies and transmits a measured amount of energy for the operation of another mechanism or system.


Etymology

Origin of actuator

First recorded in 1860–65; actuate + -or 2

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

“Many key humanoid components are also found within the EV ecosystem, such as motors, actuator power electronics, magnets and advanced motion-control bearings,” wrote Sheppard.

From Barron's Jun. 1, 2026

"The actuator is composed of a motor controller and reduction gears. It is very similar to an electric power steering system," says Se Uk Oh, vice president leading the robotics business division at Hyundai Mobis.

From BBC Feb. 5, 2026

For one thing, that requires a back-driveable actuator.

From BBC Feb. 5, 2026

The team optimized the actuator structure to allow both expansion and contraction, combining it with CLCEs, and developed a highly adaptable stretchable device.

From Science Daily Jun. 3, 2024

The tape moved on unperturbedly, reminding him to inspect the actuator bearings and extension rods.

From Tight Squeeze by Dean Charles Ing

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