wiper

American  

[wahy-per] / ˈwaɪ pər /

noun

1. a person or thing that wipes.

2. the thing with which something is wiped, as a towel, handkerchief, or squeegee.

3. windshield wiper.

4. Electricity. the portion of a selector or other similar device that makes contact with the terminals of a bank.

5. Machinery. Also a projection or partial cam, as on a rotating shaft, moving to lift or dislodge another part, especially so as to let it drop when released.

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wiper British  

/ ˈwaɪpə /

noun

1. any piece of cloth, such as a handkerchief, towel, etc, used for wiping

2. a cam rotated to ease a part and allow it to fall under its own weight, as used in stamping machines, etc

3. See windscreen wiper

4. electrical engineering a movable conducting arm, esp one in a switching or selecting device, that makes contact with a row or ring of contacts

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Etymology

Origin of wiper

First recorded in 1545–50; wipe + -er ¹

Example Sentences

It lists more than 30 openings for the position of wiper.

From The Wall Street Journal

If windshield wipers are on, headlights should be on — it’s the law.

From Los Angeles Times

The circuitry that makes them move includes motors typically used to power windshield wipers.

From The Wall Street Journal

First Brands sells billions of dollars worth of parts including oil filters and windshield wipers annually to customers such as Walmart.

From The Wall Street Journal

American auto companies have long relied on China for the magnets, which are essential for making everything from electric motors to headlights and windshield wipers.

From The Wall Street Journal