parking meter

noun

1. a mechanical device for registering and collecting payment for the length of time that a vehicle occupies a parking space, consisting typically of a timer, actuated by a coin that a driver deposits upon parking, set in a headpiece mounted on a pole.

parking meter

noun

1. a timing device, usually coin-operated, that indicates how long a vehicle may be left parked

Word History and Origins

Origin of parking meter¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

Although parking meters are operational, the city is not ticketing vehicles on expired meters.

From Washington Post

Bowser said enforcement of expired parking meters and residential parking permits would return soon.

From Washington Post

Just a few years ago, smart cities, a catch-all phrase for connecting urban infrastructure like parking meters and stoplights online, had major buzz.

From Fortune

We all know Rudy can cudgel people—whether mob bosses, bad cops, parking-meter violators, or even his own supporters.

From The Daily Beast

And after enough chitchat to warrant three rounds of quarters for the parking meter, Odenkirk has to go.

From The Daily Beast