typewriter

American  

[tahyp-rahy-ter] / ˈtaɪpˌraɪ tər /

noun

1. a machine for writing mechanically in letters and characters like those produced by printers' types.

2. Printing. a type style that gives the appearance of typewritten copy.

3. Older Use. a typist.

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typewriter British  

/ ˈtaɪpˌraɪtə /

noun

1. a keyboard machine for writing mechanically in characters resembling print. It may be operated entirely by hand ( manual typewriter ) or be powered by electricity ( electric typewriter )

2. printing a style of type resembling typescript

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Etymology

Origin of typewriter

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70; type + writer

Explanation

A typewriter is an old-fashioned machine for printing letters, school assignments, and other written works. Each key on a typewriter prints a single letter, number, or symbol in ink on a piece of paper. There are similarities between a computer keyboard and a typewriter — you use both by pressing one key at a time. But instead of watching a cursor move across a screen as you type (moving backwards easily, automatically deleting mistakes), a typewriter makes a physical mark on paper. Instead of printing your letter out (or emailing it), when you use a typewriter, you create the final product as you go, simply pulling it out of the typewriter when you finish.

Example Sentences

She also turned what used to be a gun closet into a “vault” filled with family heirlooms, including a typewriter, perfume, photos, jewelry and a flask.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 2026

The typewriter as a teaching tool in the age of AI.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

Yet with the final remnant of muscular control in his right thumb, he spelled out letters at an adapted typewriter beside Edith.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 6, 2026

Julian Barnes is sitting at an ancient electric typewriter in his study in north London.

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2026

And so I have written it whilst we wait their return, and Mrs. Harker has written with her typewriter all since she brought the MS. to us.

From "Dracula" by Bram Stoker