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

See Examples For:

cordless

Then he made another demand: “The cordless phone. Give me the cordless phone!”

From Slate ● Sep. 17, 2026

Playing divorced designer Elizabeth James, Richardson has an on-screen boudoir that is a sanctuary for the working creative mother: charcoal sketches; wire-framed reading glasses; ’90s white cordless landline; creamy thank-you roses on the nightstand.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 5, 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

She flittered around some peanuts in the carton nearest her and pulled out a small, pink cordless drill, pressed the On lever.

From "The Miseducation of Cameron Post" by emily m. danforth