Plug and Play

American  

noun

1. (sometimes lowercase) a standard for the production of compatible computers, peripherals, and software that facilitates device installation and enables automatic configuration of the system.

---

plug and play British  

noun

1. computing a feature of hardware that enables computers to automatically detect and configure hardware devices without the need for intervention

---

adjective

1. capable of detecting the addition of a new input or output device and automatically activating the appropriate control software

Etymology

Origin of Plug and Play

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

Plug and Play EV, an electric vehicle advocacy channel on YouTube, demonstrated how the system works.

From The Verge • Aug. 12, 2022

Accelerator operators like TechStars and Plug and Play Tech Center pair large companies like Home Depot, Johnson and Johnson, Citibank and Coca-Cola with startups that could benefit from their connections and experience.

From Washington Times • Aug. 11, 2015

I recently visited the Plug and Play Tech Center, a tech incubator in Silicon Valley with a special program for retail-focused startups. 

From Forbes • Apr. 8, 2014

They received $25,000 from Plug and Play Tech Center, a Sunnyvale, Calif., accelerator that helps start-ups with funds and expertise.

From Washington Post

Microsoft is working on a competing standard called Universal Plug and Play.

From Time Magazine Archive