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• Plug and Play
  Plug and Play

  noun

  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
  plug and play

  noun

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

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.

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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

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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

SS-H2 is not yet a plug and play solution for the hydrogen economy.

From Science Daily • May 10, 2026

"This device wasn't made to be your plug and play controller, it's meant to be specifically a controller for your PC," said one justification of the cost.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

Temple has also created a web app that lets anyone plug and play their own DNA that’s been sequenced by a company such as 23andMe or Ancestry.com.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 3, 2023

It’s a no-frills plug and play gaming headset, though it’s got large 50mm drivers.

From The Verge • Jul. 27, 2022

But, Mr. Perry said, as the metaverse gets built out, “there’s going to be more plug and play assets.”

From New York Times • Dec. 8, 2021