toggle switch

American  

noun

Electricity.

1. a switch in which a projecting knob or arm, moving through a small arc, causes the contacts to open or close an electric circuit suddenly, as commonly used in most homes.

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toggle switch British  

noun

1. an electric switch having a projecting lever that is manipulated in a particular way to open or close a circuit

2. a computer device that is used to turn a feature on or off

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Etymology

Origin of toggle switch

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

To take off, simply hold the toggle switch forward.

From The Wall Street Journal

There is even a red toggle switch for "manual detonation", explains Thirteenth.

From BBC

"Our work uncovered a toggle switch in his brain," Murthy said.

From Science Daily

The startup said Tuesday that ChatGPT users can now turn off their chat histories by clicking a toggle switch in their account settings.

From Seattle Times

A rocker light switch — a seesaw-like device you can use with your palm or elbow — can be easier to use than a traditional toggle switch.

From Washington Post