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

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

Bottom line: If you decide to install a new touchless kitchen faucet, chances are you’ll find other “handy” features, as well.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 20, 2022

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

All would be dark to his eyes, all silent to his ears, all tasteless to his mouth, all odorless to his nostrils, all touchless to his skin.

From The Mind and Its Education by Betts, George Herbert