actuator

[ak-choo-ey-ter]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of actuator¹

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

Example Sentences

Each sample was then placed on the actuator and vibrated at ultrasonic frequencies.

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We had all of these incredible automated nose units made with little actuators and all sorts of things.

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"They have also been shown to have promise in aerospace as actuators for automated systems such as those for deep space grappling, radar deployment or extraterrestrial exploration."

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Once inside approximately 50 yards, they will switch from the simulator to hitting into live-action greens, which have actuators that can make the putting surface rotate and change.

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

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