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 Tribest Glass Raw Tea Kettle GKD-450-B lacks a push button on the handle.
From Slate ● Oct. 26, 2018
“In ’80, there was no push button, come-rescue-me button.
From Washington Post ● Mar. 2, 2017
A large push button replaced the steering, and light sensors mounted underneath the car will allow it to follow a line of tape along the floor whenever Scarlett hits the button.
From Washington Times ● Dec. 19, 2016
When AT&T unveiled the first commercial push button phone in 1963, part of its pitch was simple: calling someone would be faster than it was on rotary phones.
From New York Times ● Mar. 11, 2011
After I'd jammed the push button, I opened the door, spying out for the head coming up the stairs.
From The Black Eagle Mystery by Bonner, Geraldine
They embraced push-button elevators for their speed and efficiency, not to mention as a way of avoiding rising labor costs.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 2, 2026
These cars are not equipped with push-button ignitions and immobilizing anti-theft devices.
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 16, 2023
It turns out that Millennials and Gen Z prefer authentic experiences over the hollow simulacrum of push-button plastic guitars.
From Salon ● Jul. 22, 2023
Mr Scott's 1980 model, given to him in 2006, was built before the days of padded steering wheels and electric windows, but it still has a working push-button radio.
From BBC ● Jul. 7, 2023
It had a full chrome grille, whitewalls, mud flaps, a push-button radio, the new stove bolt six engine, and a black convertible top that worked like a dream.
From "Typical American" by Gish Jen
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.
