touchless

American  

[tuhch-lis] / ˈtʌtʃ lɪs /

adjective

1. relating to or noting a device that begins to operate when it senses a person’s motion or presence, without needing to be touched.

   Put your pot or your hands under the touchless faucet and the water will turn on.

2. contactless.

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touchless British  

/ ˈtʌtʃlɪs /

adjective

1. describing an electronic device which can be controlled by gesture or sound and does not require the user to touch a keypad, screen, etc

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Etymology

Origin of touchless

First recorded in 1610–20 in the sense “having no sense of touch,” and in 1925–30 for current senses; touch ( def. ) + -less ( def. )

Example Sentences

Jobs become scarcer every year as car wash owners invest in touchless technologies — “We’ve been way ahead on how automation destroys jobs,” Melendrez said.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 18, 2025

Lever handles or touchless faucets are much easier to use.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 22, 2023

The equipment, called touchless tech because it doesn’t require a spa therapist, can also be reserved à la carte.

From New York Times • Mar. 7, 2023

Despite the growing popularity of mobile and touchless systems, many Metro riders who use the sales office said they are resistant to upending their routines.

From Washington Post • Jun. 18, 2022

She slipped the golden chain, and the simple religious emblem, over his head and about his neck, with a movement which was a wireless touchless caress.

From The Ghost Breaker A Novel Based Upon the Play by Goddard, Charles