push button

¹ American  

Or pushbutton

noun

1. 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.

2. the button or knob depressed.

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push-button ² American  

[poosh-buht-n] / ˈpʊʃˌbʌt n /

adjective

1. operated by or as if by push buttons.

   push-button tuning.

2. using complex, automated weapons, as long-range missiles, that require only simple initial steps to put them into action.

   push-button warfare.

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push button British  

noun

1. an electrical switch operated by pressing a button, which closes or opens a circuit

2.  push-button.  (modifier)

   1. operated by a push button

      a push-button radio

   2. initiated as simply as by pressing a button

      push-button warfare

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Etymology

Origin of push button¹

An Americanism dating back to 1875–80

Origin of push-button²

An Americanism dating back to 1875–80

Example Sentences

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

Also, the lid doesn’t have a push button and needs to be removed, as on a traditional stovetop kettle.

From Slate • Oct. 26, 2018

“In ’80, there was no push button, come-rescue-me button.

From Washington Post • Mar. 2, 2017

When, however, the button is pressed, the current has a complete path, provided there is the proper connection at S. That is, the pressure on the push button permits current to flow to the bell.

From General Science by Clark, Bertha M.