cordless

American  

[kawrd-lis] / ˈkɔrd lɪs /

adjective

1. lacking a cord.

2. (of an electrical appliance) requiring no wire leading to an external source of electricity because of a self-contained, often rechargeable, power supply; battery-powered.

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cordless British  

/ ˈkɔːdlɪs /

adjective

1. (of an electrical device) operated by an internal battery so that no connection to mains supply or other apparatus is needed

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Etymology

Origin of cordless

First recorded in 1905–10; cord + -less

Explanation

A small electronic device or power tool that doesn't have a cord and a plug for an electrical outlet, but instead is powered by a battery, is cordless. A cordless tool or device requires power to work but doesn't use wall-outlet electricity. Drills, vacuum cleaners, hair dryers, and irons can all be cordless, often by using rechargeable batteries. Since cordless appliances don't need to be attached to an outlet, they are more mobile and handy. Telephones were first available in cordless versions in the 1980's — before that, the handset was always attached to a base by a cord.

Example Sentences

WSJ | Buy Side: This lightweight, agile cordless vacuum cleans in all directions, with a green laser to show hidden dust.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

I picked up the cordless phone and dialed a friend.

From Salon • Jan. 27, 2026

He often runs the entire length of the aisles and travels up to the last row of the balcony, cordless camera and operator in tow.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2025

Derek Shaw, 68, of York, Pa., said he has an Android mobile phone, but prefers talking on his black cordless landline at home.

From New York Times • Mar. 16, 2024

I find my father asleep at the kitchen table, a cordless phone clutched to his chest.

From "Hollow City" by Ransom Riggs