digital clock

American  

noun

1. a clock that displays the time in numerical digits rather than by hands on a dial.

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digital clock British  

noun

1. a clock or watch in which the hours, minutes, and sometimes seconds are indicated by digits, rather than by hands on a dial Compare analogue clock

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Etymology

Origin of digital clock

First recorded in 1975–80

Compare meaning

How does digital-clock compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• digital clock vs. analog clock

Example Sentences

A large digital clock appeared at the start of each episode, with bright numerals showing the current time in 24-hour format, as Bauer raced against the clock to avert disaster.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 16, 2026

The backdrop was a large projection of a digital clock.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2024

The new iOS 17 brings smart display-like features to iPhone, which can now double as a digital clock or a digital assistant when placed horizontally.

From Reuters • Jun. 6, 2023

The original blue-and-yellow analogue clock returned to the bottom-right of the screen, replacing the current red digital clock for one day only.

From BBC • Jan. 17, 2023

The glowing green numbers on the digital clock glowed 3:12 a.m.

From "Coraline" by Neil Gaiman