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Synonyms

plug-in

American  
[pluhg-in] / ˈplʌgˌɪn /

adjective

  1. capable of or designed for being connected to an electrical power source by plugging in or inserting: a plug-in transistor.

    a plug-in hair dryer;

    a plug-in transistor.


noun

  1. plug.

  2. jack.

  3. a plug-in appliance.

  4. Computers. a small software program that builds additional functionality into a stand-alone computer application.

    Your web browser can’t display this video without a plug-in.

plug in British  

verb

  1. (tr, adverb) to connect (an electrical appliance) with a power source by means of an electrical plug

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

noun

  1. a device that can be connected by means of a plug

  2. computing a module or piece of software that can be added to a system to provide extra functions or features, esp software that enhances the capabilities of a web browser

  3. computing ( as modifier )

    plug-in memory cards

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
plug-in Scientific  
/ plŭgĭn′ /
  1. An accessory software or hardware package that is used in conjunction with an existing application or device to extend its capabilities or provide additional functions.


Etymology

Origin of plug-in

First recorded in 1920–25; adjective and noun use of verb phrase plug in

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sales of plug-in hybrids also rose, but sales of petrol and diesel vehicles dropped.

From Barron's

Nearly three million people have watched YouTube videos featuring a BYD Shark plug-in hybrid pickup from Mexico during road tests in Texas.

From The Wall Street Journal

But the group Environmental Action Germany voiced criticism, especially of subsidies for plug-in hybrids, which it said "offer hardly any climate benefits" over combustion engine cars.

From Barron's

Porsche also last year announced plans to scale back its EV ambitions and instead expand its lineup with more gas-powered and plug-in hybrid models than it had originally planned.

From The Wall Street Journal

“We are pleased to end the year on a positive note with growth across key regions thanks to increased sales of our fully electric and plug-in hybrid offerings,” said Chief Commercial Officer Erik Severinson.

From The Wall Street Journal