a device designed to close or open an electric circuit when a button or knob is depressed, and to return to a normal position when it is released.
the button or knob depressed.
operated by or as if by push buttons.
push-button tuning.
using complex, automated weapons, as long-range missiles, that require only simple initial steps to put them into action.
push-button warfare.
an electrical switch operated by pressing a button, which closes or opens a circuit
push-button. (modifier)
operated by a push button
a push-button radio
initiated as simply as by pressing a button
push-button warfare
An Americanism dating back to 1875–80
An Americanism dating back to 1875–80
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The ample water reservoir is easy to remove, and we liked the simple lighted push button controls that allow for an easy guided and personalized drink creation experience.
From Seattle Times • Dec. 1, 2021
“Usually older people, they don’t like the push button to start the car,” he said.
From New York Times • Nov. 25, 2021
In our tests the push button on the handle made for easy one-handed lid opening, and the water poured in an even stream without dripping.
From Slate • Oct. 26, 2018
“In ’80, there was no push button, come-rescue-me button.
From Washington Post • Mar. 2, 2017
Examination by candle rays of the spot where the electric push button should be showed that it was 231 still there, but temporarily eclipsed.
From Marjorie Dean, College Senior by Lester, Pauline
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
