printer

American  

[prin-ter] / ˈprɪn tər /

noun

1. a person or thing that prints, especially a person whose occupation is printing. printing.

2. Computers. an output device that produces a paper copy of alphanumeric or graphic data.

3. an instrument that automatically records telegraphic messages by means of a printing printing mechanism activated by incoming signals.

4. Movies. a photographic machine through which either the negative or positive of a master print can be run, together with unexposed film, to make a duplicate.

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printer British  

/ ˈprɪntə /

noun

1. a person or business engaged in printing

2. a machine or device that prints

3. computing an output device for printing results on paper

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Other Word Forms

• printerlike adjective

Etymology

Origin of printer

First recorded in 1495–1505; print + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Among other issues, worry that consumer spending would weaken, hurting demand for PC and printers, dragged down the price.

From Barron's

The summer’s unpleasant cicada infestation, meanwhile, is a stark reminder that his preferred droning screech comes from his dot-matrix printer, spitting out keyboard-symbol drawings he makes for customers who send him cash.

From Los Angeles Times

As you pull out of the driveway, remind them of the gift that keeps on giving: your phone number—as long as they don’t ask you to fix a printer.

From The Wall Street Journal

The art department's renders were then given to prop master Brad Elliott, who built the instruments on a 3D printers, and the actors played them for real on set.

From BBC

Photo of Dr. Cain and her husband and two daughters by the printer.

From Literature

Related Words

• laser printer